MPD investigators give therapy dog to family of Fletcher Merkel

In a special show of continuing support nearly three months after the tragic and deadly shooting at Annunciation Church, a group of Minneapolis police officers gave a special gift to the family of one of the children killed.

Officials say the family of Fletcher Merkel, the 8-year-old boy killed in the Aug. 27 attack, had expressed interest in a golden retriever puppy in the wake of the shooting.

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After learning that, a group of MPD homicide investigators started raising money to make that wish come true.

On Thursday, Minneapolis police presented the Merkel family with Xander. Additionally, MPD says Rolling Oaks Goldens, which specializes in training therapy dogs, has agreed to train Xander for free.

“Our thoughts will always remain with those affected by the Annunciation shootings, and this small gesture is the least we can do to show our support of those affected,” MPD wrote on social media.

At least 30 people were wounded in the mass shooting at Annunciation, which killed Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski.

A GoFundMe for the Merkel family has raised more than $100,000 over the past few months.

Minneapolis police present the family of Fletcher Merkel with a golden retriever puppy on Nov. 13, 2025.
(MPD)
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