An 8-year-old boy killed in Wednesday’s shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis has been identified by family as Fletcher Merkel.
“Yesterday, a coward decided to take our eight-year-old son Fletcher away from us,” his father, Jesse Merkel, said in a statement shared with CNN. “We will never be allowed to hold him, talk to him, play with him and watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was on the path to becoming.”
“Fletcher loved his family, friends, fishing, cooking and any sport that he was allowed to play,” Merkel added. “I hope that in time, our family can find healing.”
Authorities said the shooting broke out during a school Mass on the morning of Aug. 27. Two children — Fletcher and a 10-year-old who has not been named — were killed, while 18 others were injured. Officials noted that most of those hurt were students, along with three parishioners in their 80s. All of the wounded are expected to recover.
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Gunfire came from outside the sanctuary while students, staff, and parishioners gathered for the service. Doors had reportedly been blocked with wooden planks before the attack began.
Police identified the shooter as 23-year-old Robin Westman, a former Annunciation student who died by suicide in the school parking lot following the violence. Investigators said they found a manifesto and online postings connected to the attack. Westman’s mother had previously worked at the school.
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Teachers and students acted quickly to shield classmates and help others escape, actions that officials say likely prevented an even greater tragedy. City leaders praised their efforts, honored first responders, and urged continued support for victims’ families as the investigation moves forward.
That evening, the community came together at several vigils across Minneapolis to mourn the lives lost. “You don’t think it’s going to happen in your community,” said Kaliee Poling, who attended Annunciation as a child, in remarks to CNN. “And now, being a parent, I just can’t imagine what those kids went through that morning.”
