10-Year-Old Killed in Minneapolis School Shooting ID’d by Family as Harper Moyski

The second child killed in Wednesday’s mass shooting at a Catholic school and church in Minneapolis has been identified.

Family members confirmed that 10-year-old Harper Moyski was one of the victims. She and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel were fatally shot when a 23-year-old gunman opened fire on students and teachers attending a school mass at the start of the academic year.

Moyski was a student at Annunciation Catholic School, where the attack occurred.

In a statement released Thursday, Aug. 28, her family said:

“We are devastated to share that our beloved daughter, Harper Moyski, was tragically killed in the recent school shooting. Harper was a bright, joyful, and deeply loved 10-year-old whose laughter, kindness, and spirit touched everyone who knew her.”

Her parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, continued:

“Our hearts are broken not only as parents, but also for Harper’s sister, who adored her big sister and is grieving an unimaginable loss. As a family, we are shattered, and words cannot capture the depth of our pain. While our immediate focus is on Harper and our family’s healing, we also believe it is important that her memory fuels action. No family should ever have to endure this kind of pain.

We urge our leaders and communities to take meaningful steps to address gun violence and the mental health crisis in this country. Change is possible, and it is necessary—so that Harper’s story does not become yet another in a long line of tragedies.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support. Harper’s light will always shine through us, and we hope her memory inspires others to work toward a safer, more compassionate world.”

Authorities reported Thursday that 18 others were injured, including 15 children. The remaining victims were three churchgoers in their 80s, according to KTSP.

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey described the shooting as “unspeakable” during a press conference.

“No words can capture the horror of this act,” Frey said. “Children are dead. Do not think of these as just somebody else’s kids—think of this as if it were your own. Every one of us needs to be wrapping our arms around these families, giving them every ounce we can muster. These were Minneapolis families, these were American families.”

Authorities identified the shooter as Robin Westman, 23, whose mother had once worked at the school. Westman died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in the school parking lot.

School principal Matthew DeBoer praised staff and students for their bravery.

“Our teachers were heroes,” he said. “Children were ducked down, adults were protecting children, older children were protecting younger children. It could have been significantly worse without their heroic action.”

Still, DeBoer mourned the lives lost:

“We lost two angels today.”

Mayor Frey echoed that sentiment, urging the public not to reduce the tragedy to platitudes.

“You cannot put into words the gravity, tragedy, or pain of this situation. Don’t just say it’s about thoughts and prayers—these kids were literally praying. These are kids who should be learning with their friends, playing on the playground, and going to school or church in peace.”