It’s often the gunman who dominates the headlines after a school shooting, but it’s the innocent lives lost who deserve to be remembered. This week, tragedy struck outside Annunciation Catholic Church and School in Minneapolis, where two children were killed. Their families are now sharing who they were and the joy they brought to the world.

Police identified the victims as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. Fletcher’s father, Jesse Merkel, described his son as a bright and joyful boy who loved cooking, sports, fishing, and spending time with family. Fighting back tears, he asked that Fletcher be remembered for the person he was, not the act that ended his life.

Harper’s family remembered her as a vibrant, loving child who lit up every room and was adored by her younger sister. They shared their heartbreak but also urged that Harper’s memory fuel action. They called on leaders and communities to take meaningful steps to address gun violence and the mental health crisis so no other family has to endure such pain.

The shooting left 18 others wounded, including 15 children and three elderly adults. At least one victim remains in critical condition. Police said the suspect, 23-year-old Robin Westman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities recovered more than 100 rifle rounds at the scene and confirmed he legally owned three firearms, while investigators continue to search for a motive, pointing to a manifesto posted online before the attack.