In the wake of a devastating shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis, two young lives were tragically cut short. Among those lost was 10-year-old Harper Moyski, whose bright smile and spirit touched all who knew her. The shooter, 23-year-old Robin Westman, fired into a school Mass, killing Harper and 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel, while injuring 18 others—15 of them children.

Harper Moyski, 10, was shot and killed after 23-year-old Robin Westman opened fire inside the Annunciation Church and Catholic School during a welcome mass for the new school year.

As the community reels from shock and sorrow, NBA star Steph Curry has stepped forward with a heartfelt message that has moved many to tears.

Robin Westman indiscriminately fired 116 rifle rounds inside Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis at children, who he “wanted to watch suffer.”

A Nation in Mourning

The school and its affiliated church had become a place of worship and learning for families for generations. That sacred space turned into a battlefield when Westman opened fire through the church’s windows, unleashing 116 rifle rounds in mere minutes. The shooter, once a student there and the child of a former staff member, acted alone before taking their own life.

“As a family, we are shattered, and words cannot capture the depth of our pain,” Harper’s family wrote in a statement.

Authorities are treating the incident as a possible hate crime and act of domestic terrorism, citing Westman’s disturbing writings and fixation on mass shootings. Twenty of the victims were young students aged 6–15, and the community’s grief is palpable. Tributes have sprouted across Minneapolis, with flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages laid in memory of Harper and Fletcher.

The Loss of Harper Moyski

Harper Moyski was the second killed student who was ID’d by officials on Thursday. Fletcher Merkel, 8, was the first victim to be identified.

Harper, a 10-year-old student at the school, has been remembered by her family as “bright, joyful, and deeply loved.” Her laughter and kindness left a mark on everyone she met. In a statement released by her parents, Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin, they described their heartbreak:

“Our hearts are broken not only as parents, but also for Harper’s sister, who adored her big sister.”
They added that no words could capture the depth of their grief and stressed the urgent need for action to address gun-related violence and mental health issues.

Steph Curry’s Message: A Father Speaks from the Heart

Moved by the heartbreaking news, Steph Curry offered his condolences publicly, channeling both empathy and resolve:

“As a father, I cannot begin to fathom the loss of a child so young, so full of promise. My heart is with Harper’s family, the entire Annunciation community, and every parent, child, and teacher affected by this tragedy. Know that your grief is shared, and your pain is seen. I hope our nation heeds her story—too many children have paid the price already. May Harper’s light push us toward change.”

The message quickly went viral. Lakers fan pages, parenting groups, and local news stations shared the tribute, praising Curry’s willingness to lend his voice beyond the basketball court. Many commented that his words were filled with sincerity—not celebrity optics—even calling it “a father’s compassion in the face of horror.”

Community Strength and Resilience

Parents await news during an active shooter situation at the Annunciation Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025.

Amid the heartbreak, stories of courage and solidarity emerged. Students and staff had practiced drills; older students used their bodies to shield younger ones during the shooting, likely preventing even more tragic loss.

First responders acted heroically, rushing into danger to aid the wounded. Parents recounted scenes that broke hearts: teachers and community members huddled together to protect children as gunfire erupted.

Mayor Jacob Frey and Governor Tim Walz called for meaningful policy change, including assault weapons restrictions and mental health interventions. Clergy and community leaders hosted interfaith vigils, urging healing over despair.

A Moment of Reflection, a Call to Action

This tragedy—especially the loss of young lives like Harper’s—underscores America’s dire need for leadership and reform. As Curry’s words spread, they rang out as both a lament and a plea: for empathy, for safety, for meaningful change.

While no tribute can amend the irreparable, Steph Curry’s message offers a moment of unity and community in the face of unfathomable loss.

Harper Moyski’s legacy shines brighter for a moment—not just for what she was, but for what she now may inspire: a world where children can pray in safety, where laughter is not silenced, and where compassion leads to action.