Latest News in Minneapolis, MN

Funeral for Annunciation shooting victim set for Sunday afternoon

The funeral for Fletcher Merkel, an 8-year-old victim of the Annunciation Catholic Church mass shooting, will take place Sunday at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church in Minneapolis. A public celebration of life for another victim, 10-year-old Harper Moyski, is scheduled for September 14 at Lake Harriet Bandshell. The community has created a memorial for the victims outside the church, where a shooter injured at least 21 people during morning Mass.

Twin Cities Catholic churches tighten security after Annunciation shooting

Catholic parishes in the Twin Cities are enhancing security measures following the tragic shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church, which resulted in two fatalities and numerous injuries. Churches like St. Thomas More and St. Albert the Great are locking doors, hiring security, and revising routines to ensure the safety of worshippers. Leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining a welcoming atmosphere despite these new security protocols.

Memorial set for 10-year-old girl killed in Annunciation shooting

A public memorial for Harper Moyski, the 10-year-old girl killed in the Annunciation Church shooting, will take place at the Lake Harriet Bandshell in Minneapolis on September 14. The event will celebrate her life with music, food, and laughter, welcoming all who loved her. Harper's family described her as a passionate and caring individual with dreams of becoming a veterinarian.

Community education is key to combatting vaping and hookah use among Somali Minnesotans

Hassan Mohamed, a tobacco prevention coordinator, highlights the rise of vaping and hookah use among Somali youth in Minneapolis. The Minnesota Youth Tobacco Survey reveals that 30% of teens tried vaping in 2023, nearly double since 2017, with many unaware of the health risks associated with hookah smoking. Local initiatives aim to combat this trend through targeted education and community engagement.

Annunciation principals letter to JD Vance describes shooting

Matthew DeBoer, principal of Annunciation Catholic School, met with Vice President JD Vance to share his harrowing experience during a mass shooting that left two children dead and 21 others injured. In a letter, he urged the Vances to take action, emphasizing the lasting impact of the tragedy on the victims' families and the community.

Minneapolis DFL seeks to restore Omar Fatehs endorsement for mayor

The Minneapolis DFL seeks to restore the endorsement of state Senator Omar Fateh for mayor after the state DFL rescinded it due to voting irregularities. The Minneapolis DFL's chair criticized the state party's sanctions, claiming they disenfranchised city delegates. The move comes as Fateh campaigns against incumbent Mayor Jacob Frey amid ongoing disputes about the endorsement process.

Minneapolis students stage walkout from schools near Annunciation to protest gun violence

Minneapolis students joined a nationwide walkout on Friday to protest gun violence after the Annunciation Catholic Church shooting. Activists, including survivors of previous shootings, demanded a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, emphasizing the need for safer schools.

Rays of hope for 12-year-old victim of Annunciation shooting in critical condition

A neurosurgeon expressed cautious optimism regarding 12-year-old Sophia Forchas, who suffered severe injuries in the Annunciation Church shooting. Dr. Walt Galicich noted that while her condition remains critical, there are signs of improvement after ten days of treatment. Sophia's father described her as a strong and innocent child who is fighting for her life.

Carjacker fleeing officers hits car, kills two completely innocent people, Minneapolis police say

A carjacker in Minneapolis killed two women and injured others during a violent spree on Thursday morning. The suspect, Troy Mike Payton, 45, led police on a reckless chase before crashing into another vehicle. Police Chief Brian O’Hara described the incident as devastating for innocent victims.

Annunciation shooting victim Lydia Kaiser, 12, is making remarkable progress after surgery

Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance visited 12-year-old Lydia Kaiser, who is recovering from a traumatic brain injury sustained during a mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic Church and School. Lydia remains in critical condition but is reportedly making remarkable progress following surgery. Her father urged Vance to take action against gun violence in the U.S.