Father Remembers Son Fletcher, Victim of Catholic School Shooting

Remembering Fletcher Merkel

• 💔 Fletcher Merkel, an 8-year-old boy, was tragically taken from his family due to a senseless act of violence at Annunciation Catholic School.
• 🌟 Fletcher is remembered for his love of family, friends, fishing, cooking, and sports.
• 🕊️ His father expressed hope for healing for his family and the other victims' families, and for the full recovery of those wounded.

Heroism Amidst Tragedy

• 👏 The father acknowledged the swift and heroic actions of children and adults inside the church during the event, which prevented a greater tragedy.
• 🙏 He conveyed thankfulness for these selfless individuals.

A Plea for Empathy

• 😔 The family requests empathy, not just sympathy, as they and the Annunciation community grieve and try to comprehend the senseless violence.
• 💖 They urge people to remember Fletcher for the person he was, not for the act that ended his life.
• 🤗 The father's final message is a poignant reminder to give children an extra hug and kiss today.