Witnesses Recall Fear and Bravery During Minneapolis School Shooting
MINNEAPOLIS — What was meant to be a peaceful morning of prayer at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis turned into a scene of horror and courage, as students and parishioners faced gunfire during the school’s first Mass of the year.
According to witnesses, the Mass had just begun when sudden gunshots shattered the silence. At first, many thought it was a prank or firecrackers, but fear quickly spread as the reality of the attack became clear. Parents, teachers, and older students shielded children, while worshippers sought safety under pews.
Catherine Spandel, a longtime parishioner and alumna of Annunciation School, described the terrifying moment: “Even before the principal shouted ‘Get down,’ I threw myself to the floor. I truly thought we wouldn’t make it out alive.”
Police confirmed that the shooter circled the church, firing through windows. The attack tragically claimed the lives of 10-year-old Harper Moyski and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel. Eighteen others, including elderly parishioners and children, were injured but are expected to recover.
Despite the chaos, moments of bravery emerged. Spandel recalled praying with the children’s pastoral minister as glass shattered around them, while others rushed to help the wounded. One child with a head injury was immediately rushed to the hospital and is now in stable condition.
The tragedy has left the tight-knit Minneapolis community in shock. Generations of families have been part of Annunciation Catholic School, and the violence has shaken a place many considered a second home. As investigators continue their work, parishioners are left grieving but also standing together in resilience.
