Funeral for Annunciation shooting victim set for Sunday afternoon

Fletcher Merkel's funeral is set for Sunday at 4 p. m. at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, following a visitation at 2 p. m. The service is open to the public and will be livestreamed, with attendees invited to wear bright colors in remembrance of Fletcher's vibrant personality.

A celebration of life for Harper Moyski, another victim of the mass shooting, will take place on September 14 at Lake Harriet Bandshell. The community has erected a colorful memorial outside the Annunciation Catholic Church, where a shooter opened fire during morning Mass, injuring at least 21 people. Fletcher's father, Jesse Merkel, conveyed their family's deep sorrow, noting that they will never again hold or talk to their son. An obituary described Fletcher as a curious child with dreams of becoming an NFL player, emphasizing his love for sports and family activities. The family encourages donations to a GoFundMe campaign, with part of the funds allocated to a charitable cause.