Full Breakdown
Annunciation Church Shooting: Updates on Victims and Calls for Change
9/6/2025, 2:10:30 AM
Overview of the Incident
On August 27, 2025, a mass shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis during the first school Mass of the academic year. A 23-year-old shooter opened fire from outside the church, killing two children—10-year-old Harper Moyski and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel—and injuring 21 others, including several children. The shooter died by suicide in the parking lot, and authorities are investigating the incident as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime targeting Catholics.
Current Condition of Victims
Among the injured, 12-year-old Sophia Forchas remains in critical condition at Hennepin Healthcare. Dr. Walt Galicich, her neurosurgeon, reported that Sophia was shot in the head, with the bullet lodged in her brain. Following emergency surgery, part of her skull was removed to relieve pressure. While her condition is still critical, there are "rays of hope" as she has shown slight movements and responsiveness after ten days in a medically induced coma. However, Dr. Galicich cautioned that Sophia could still become the third fatality from the shooting.
Sophia's father, Tom Forchas, expressed gratitude for the medical team and the community's support, stating, "Sophia is strong. Sophia is fighting." He also extended condolences to the families of the deceased children, emphasizing the impact of the tragedy on their community.
Other victims include 6-year-old David Haeg, who underwent surgery for a lacerated spleen and shrapnel injuries, and Lydia Kaiser, who was injured while protecting a younger student. Lydia's father, Harry Kaiser, and her mother, Leah, have called for legislative action on gun control, urging leaders to "move your feet" and take meaningful steps to prevent future tragedies.
Community Response and Fundraising Efforts
In the wake of the shooting, nearly $4 million has been raised through various fundraising campaigns to support the victims and their families. These funds are intended to cover medical expenses, trauma counseling, and other related costs. The Catholic Community Foundation of Minnesota has established the Annunciation Hope and Healing Fund to provide financial support to the church and school.
Calls for Legislative Action
The shooting has reignited discussions on gun control, with many parents and community members advocating for stricter regulations. During a visit to the site, Vice President JD Vance met with grieving families and emphasized the need for bipartisan efforts to address gun violence. Parents have expressed their desire for lawmakers to take action, with some calling for a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.
Harry Kaiser articulated a plea for common-sense legislation, stating, "Thoughts and prayers haven't been enough." He urged lawmakers to consider the root causes of gun violence and to take steps to protect children in schools.
Conclusion
The Annunciation Church shooting has left a profound impact on the Minneapolis community, with ongoing support for the victims and their families. As the recovery process continues for those injured, the calls for legislative change grow louder, reflecting a collective desire to prevent such tragedies in the future. The community remains united in prayer and action, hoping for healing and change in the aftermath of this devastating event.
