Second Victim Identified in Minneapolis Catholic School Shooting: Remembering 10-Year-Old Harper Moyski

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minneapolis community is reeling from unimaginable grief as authorities have identified the second child victim of the tragic Catholic school shooting as 10-year-old Harper Moyski. Harper was killed alongside 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel when a gunman opened fire during morning Mass earlier this week.

Harper’s family released a statement describing her as a bright, joyful child whose kindness and laughter left lasting impressions on everyone she encountered. “Harper’s heart was full of love,” her parents said. “She was generous, playful, and always eager to help others. Her smile could light up a room. While our hearts are broken, we want Harper’s memory to inspire real action so that no other family has to endure what we are facing today.”

Remembering Harper and Fletcher

Harper’s death has shattered not only her family but also classmates, teachers, and parish members who saw her as a source of joy and optimism. Her teachers recalled her as a diligent student who loved reading, art, and time spent with friends.

Alongside Harper, 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel also lost his life in the horrific attack. Fletcher’s family remembered him as a boy full of curiosity and energy. He loved fishing, cooking, and playing sports, and he cherished time with his siblings and friends. “Fletcher had a way of making everyone feel included,” his relatives shared. “He had a contagious laugh, and he was happiest when surrounded by the people he loved.”

Both children had been active in their parish and school communities, leaving a deep void in the lives of those who knew them best.

The Shooting

Authorities confirmed that the shooter, 23-year-old Robin Westman, entered the church during morning Mass and opened fire, striking Harper and Fletcher before ultimately dying by suicide at the scene. No other parishioners were physically harmed, though the trauma of the event has reverberated throughout the school and the wider Catholic community.

Police and federal investigators are continuing to piece together Westman’s motives, examining his background, online activity, and potential warning signs. While the investigation remains ongoing, leaders have already renewed urgent calls for stronger measures to prevent such tragedies.

Community Response

The tragedy has drawn widespread mourning across Minneapolis and beyond. Vigils have been held at the church where the shooting occurred, with hundreds of people gathering to pray, light candles, and offer comfort to the Moyski and Merkel families.

Local leaders and clergy have emphasized both grief and a call to action. “We cannot allow these young lives to be lost in vain,” one parish priest said. “Harper and Fletcher deserve to be remembered not only for who they were, but as catalysts for the change we must demand in our society.”

Counselors and crisis response teams have been deployed to support students, parents, and parishioners grappling with shock and loss.

A Call for Change

Both families have expressed their desire for the children’s memories to inspire tangible steps toward preventing gun violence. In their statement, Harper’s parents urged leaders to find the courage to act: “Harper dreamed of a safe and loving world. We owe it to her—and to Fletcher—to do everything in our power to make that dream real.”

As the investigation continues and funerals are prepared, the Minneapolis community remains united in grief, determined to honor the lives of Harper Moyski and Fletcher Merkel by working toward a safer future.