MINNEAPOLIS — The families of two young children killed in Wednesday’s mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School have spoken publicly for the first time, identifying the victims as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski.

Both families released deeply moving statements on Thursday afternoon, asking for privacy as they grieve and urging the community to remember their children for the lives they lived rather than the tragic way they were taken.

Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, delivered the family’s remarks, remembering his son as a bright, energetic boy with a love for sports, fishing, cooking, and time spent with family and friends.

“Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son, Fletcher, away from us,” Merkel said. “Because of their actions, 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.”

He went on to acknowledge the other victims, the swift actions of children and adults inside the church, and the support of first responders. He urged the public to show empathy as his family and community attempt to make sense of the violence.

“Please remember Fletcher for the person he was and not the act that ended his life,” he said. “Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today. We love you. Fletcher, you’ll always be with us.”

Harper’s parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, issued a joint statement describing their daughter as a vibrant and compassionate child whose kindness left a lasting mark on everyone she met.

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

The family emphasized the profound loss felt not only by them, but also by Harper’s younger sister, who adored her and is now navigating grief beyond her years.

“As a family, we are shattered, and words cannot capture the depth of our pain,” the statement continued. “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.”

The family also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support, while requesting space to grieve and to support Harper’s sister privately.

Authorities confirmed that in addition to Fletcher and Harper, 18 people were wounded in the attack, including 15 children between the ages of 6 and 15 and three adults in their 80s.

Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara reported that all of the children are expected to survive, though several remain in critical condition.

At Hennepin Healthcare, CEO Thomas Klemond described one child’s condition as “touch and go” on Thursday morning, underscoring the gravity of the injuries suffered.

The shooting has drawn responses from across Minnesota, the nation, and the world. Vigils have been held throughout the Twin Cities metro, and a moment of silence was observed during Wednesday night’s Minnesota Twins game in Toronto.

Both President Trump and Governor Tim Walz have ordered flags in Minnesota and across the country to be flown at half-staff through the end of the month in honor of the victims.

Community groups, faith leaders, and advocacy organizations continue to mobilize support for the families and survivors, with calls for both healing and meaningful action to prevent future tragedies.