Minneapolis City Council adopts resolution honoring Fletcher Merkel, killed in August 2025 Annunciation shooting
Unanimous vote marks renewed public recognition of a child killed in the Annunciation attack
The Minneapolis City Council on Thursday adopted an honorary resolution recognizing the life and memory of Fletcher Alexander Merkel, an 8-year-old killed in the Aug. 27, 2025 shooting at the Church of the Annunciation and Annunciation Catholic School in south Minneapolis. The item appeared on the Council’s Feb. 19, 2026 agenda and was approved unanimously during the meeting.
Merkel was born Jan. 17, 2017. The resolution describes him as a child remembered for curiosity and joy, noting his enthusiasm for sports—including the Green Bay Packers—and his fondness for animals and outdoor exploring.
What happened at Annunciation on Aug. 27, 2025
The Annunciation attack occurred during a school Mass in the first week of the academic year. Authorities said the shooter fired from outside the church through stained-glass windows, striking children and adults inside. Two students—Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski—were killed. Dozens of others were injured, including many children. The shooter died at the scene by suicide, and the case drew local, state and federal investigative involvement.
- Date of attack: Aug. 27, 2025
- Location: Church of the Annunciation and Annunciation Catholic School, south Minneapolis
- Fatalities: two students and the shooter
- Injuries: dozens of people, predominantly students
Remarks at City Hall focus on loss and community recovery
Council Member Linea Palmisano addressed the chamber ahead of the vote, describing grief as lasting even as healing continues. Annunciation Principal Matthew DeBoer also spoke, telling council members and attendees that the community did not want to be gathered under such circumstances and emphasizing ongoing remembrance of Merkel.
“Healing is a journey, but the sting will never go away.”
Following the remarks, those present joined in a rendition associated with the hymn “This Little Light of Mine,” a moment framed as an act of remembrance in the chamber.
Public actions after the shooting
In the months after the attack, Merkel’s death was marked by a large public funeral and community gatherings. City leaders previously issued a joint council statement in late August 2025 emphasizing support for students, families, staff and clergy, and pointing residents to crisis and mental-health resources in the immediate aftermath.
The Feb. 19 resolution continues that public record of acknowledgment—situating Merkel’s life in city proceedings while the broader investigation and long-term recovery efforts for survivors and families remain part of Minneapolis’ ongoing response to a mass casualty event affecting a school and worship community.