Anderson Cooper 360

Families Identify 2 Students Killed In Minneapolis Church Shooting

Aug 29, 2025
Chloe Francoual, an 11-year-old student at Annunciation Catholic School, bravely shares her harrowing experience as a survivor of a tragic school shooting. She recounts the chaotic moments as the incident unfolded, highlighting the emotional impact on her community. The discussion also touches on the resilience and strength of families coping with loss and grief. Additionally, it reveals critical issues surrounding public health leadership amidst a backdrop of violence, inviting listeners to reflect on the need for empathy and safety in schools.
Ask episode
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
ANECDOTE

Families Name Two Children Killed

  • Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moiske, aged 8–12, were identified as two children killed in the Minneapolis church shooting.
  • Their families described them as joyful, loved, and taken in a senseless act of violence.
INSIGHT

Shooter’s Deliberate Targeting Of Children

  • Authorities say the shooter fired 116 rounds and targeted children deliberately.
  • Investigators found writings and markings showing a fixation on past mass shooters and intent to cause maximum child casualties.
ANECDOTE

11-Year-Old Survivor Recounts Hiding

  • Eleven-year-old Chloe Francoual recounted hearing gunshots during Mass and hiding with classmates in a pre-K room.
  • She described kids putting tables against doors, smelling smoke, and seeing police kick the door open to get them out.
Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode
Get the app