In brief
Friends and family gathered at an outdoor amphitheater in Minneapolis to celebrate the life of Harper Moyski, a victim of a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School. Harper's mother, Jackie Flavin, shared fond memories of her daughter during the emotional tribute, urging the community to work towards reducing gun violence. The shooting, which also claimed the life of another child, Fletcher Merkel, has reignited discussions on the urgent need for change in American society regarding gun safety and violence.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The community of Minneapolis is mourning the loss of 10-year-old Harper Moyski, who was tragically killed during a mass shooting at a local Catholic church. Described by her mother, Jackie Flavin, as a fierce, curious, and funny child, Harper was memorialized in a heartfelt gathering at a lakeside amphitheater, where many shared their memories and called for a reduction in violence across the nation.
During the ceremony, Flavin expressed gratitude for the support received since Harper's death, likening her family's grief to being submerged in a dark ocean. She highlighted Harper's passion for life, her love for animals, and her ambition to become a veterinarian. She didn’t water herself down, Flavin said, urging everyone to embrace their true selves as Harper did.
Harper was one of two children killed in the shooting at Annunciation Catholic School on August 27, which also left 21 others injured. The alleged shooter, Robin Westman, a former student, fired over a hundred rounds into the church during a Mass, before taking his own life.
Flavin, who called Harper extra in the very best way, encouraged the audience to turn to kindness in a time of division, emphasizing the importance of community in combating the pervasive threat of gun violence. The memorial occurred shortly after another tragic shooting in Utah, signifying an ongoing crisis that many speakers at the event condemned.
Rabbi Jason Rodich, a family member, implored attendees to replace social media divisiveness with warmth and connection, offering a message of hope and solidarity in honor of Harper. As the community reflects on this profound loss, they are reminded of the urgent need for change to protect future generations.
