"Our hearts are broken": Parents of 2 kids killed in shooting issue statements

What they're saying: "Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son Fletcher away from us," said Jesse Merkel as he paid tribute to his son in a media statement.

• "Because of their actions, we will never be able to hold him, talk to him, play with him, and watch him grow into the wonderful young man he was on the path to becoming," he added.
• "Fletcher loved his family, friends, fishing, cooking and any sport that he was allowed to play. ... Please remember Fletcher for the person he was, and not the act that ended his life. Give your kids an extra hug and kiss today."

Michael Moyski and Jackie Flavin remembered their daughter Harper as "a bright, joyful, and deeply loved 10-year-old whose laughter, kindness, and spirit touched everyone who knew her."

• They added: "Our hearts are broken not only as parents, but also for Harper's sister, who adored her big sister and is grieving an unimaginable loss. As a family, we are shattered, and words cannot capture the depth of our pain."

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