A school shooting in Minneapolis has left two children dead and at least 18 others injured. Read the full story, victim tributes, and community reactions.
Tragic School Shooting in Minneapolis
Minneapolis is in mourning after a horrific school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School claimed the lives of two young students and left at least 18 others injured. The tragedy unfolded on Thursday morning when a lone gunman entered the school and opened fire, sending shockwaves across the city and reigniting national debates on gun control.
Authorities confirmed the victims as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski, both remembered by their families as bright, loving, and full of life. Their deaths have left the community heartbroken, with vigils and memorials quickly organized outside the school to honor their memory.
The Attack
Police reports indicate that the shooter, a young male, entered the school shortly after morning classes began. Armed with a firearm, he moved through hallways targeting classrooms. The chaos forced teachers and students to barricade themselves inside as emergency calls flooded 911.
Within minutes, Minneapolis police responded to the scene, engaging the suspect in a standoff. The gunman eventually died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound before officers could detain him. Investigators later discovered a manifesto posted online, in which the suspect expressed anger and frustration, though the exact motives remain unclear.
Injuries and Medical Response
Eighteen students sustained injuries during the attack, ranging from gunshot wounds to trauma suffered while fleeing the building. Several remain hospitalized, with at least three reported in critical condition. First responders praised school staff for their quick thinking, which likely saved more lives by helping children hide and stay calm under pressure.
Community Grieves Together
The tragedy has devastated families, teachers, and neighbors throughout Minneapolis. Candlelight vigils drew hundreds of mourners who gathered to pray, lay flowers, and support grieving parents. Messages of solidarity have poured in from across the country, with people expressing anger, sadness, and calls for change.
“We lost two angels today,” one parent said through tears. “No family should ever have to bury their child because of a school shooting.”
Political and National Response
The shooting has reignited urgent debates over school safety and gun reform. Minnesota officials pledged to review current safety protocols, while national leaders called for action to prevent similar tragedies. The White House released a statement offering condolences to the victims’ families and urging bipartisan cooperation on solutions to gun violence.
Advocacy groups have renewed their push for stronger background checks, school security measures, and mental health support for young people.
Final Thoughts
The Minneapolis school shooting is yet another painful reminder of the dangers facing students across America. While the investigation continues, the focus remains on helping the community heal and supporting the families of the victims.
For now, Minneapolis unites in grief, standing together against violence while honoring the lives of Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski — two children whose futures were tragically cut short.