Parents of children who lost their lives in the Annunciation Catholic school shooting express their thoughts.

Parents of children who lost their lives in the Annunciation Catholic school shooting express their thoughts.

The two students who lost their lives in the mass shooting at Annunciation Catholic School were an 8-year-old boy with a passion for fishing and cooking, and a 10-year-old girl celebrated for her laughter and kindness.

"Yesterday, a coward chose to take our 8-year-old son, Fletcher, from us," Jesse Merkel stated during comments made outside the school on Thursday, publicly naming his son as one of the victims who lost their lives in the "senseless act of violence" perpetrated by a 23-year-old former student of the institution. "Due to their actions, we will never have the opportunity to hold him, converse with him, engage in play with him, or witness his growth into the remarkable young man he was destined to become."

Harper's parents recalled her as a "radiant, cheerful, and profoundly cherished 10-year-old whose laughter, kindness, and spirit impacted everyone who had the privilege of knowing her."

"Our hearts are shattered not only as parents but also for Harper’s sister, who idolized her older sibling and is experiencing an unfathomable loss," her parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, expressed in a statement given to ABC Minneapolis station KSTP. "As a family, we are devastated, and no words can adequately convey the extent of our sorrow."

Eighteen additional individuals -- comprising 15 children -- sustained injuries in the shooting and are anticipated to recover, according to police reports.

The families of the victims expressed their appreciation for the response to the mass shooting.

Jesse Merkel mentioned that he has heard numerous accounts of the "prompt and courageous actions of both children and adults, from within the church," he stated. "Had it not been for these individuals and their altruistic efforts, this could have resulted in a tragedy of significantly greater proportions. I am grateful for these individuals."

Harper's parents conveyed that they "also mourn for our fellow Annunciation family in sorrow and for those who were injured" and expressed their "gratitude for the staff and first responders who provided so much assistance to so many yesterday."

Jesse Merkel requested that individuals provide their children with "an extra hug and kiss today" and that his son be remembered "for the person he was, and not the act that ended his life."

Harper's parents emphasized the significance of their daughter's memory "fuels action" while calling for substantial change to avert a similar tragedy and "work toward a safer, more compassionate world."