MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (WCCO) - The family of one of the victims shot early Wednesday morning at Annunciation Catholic Church in southwest Minneapolis spoke out for the first time Thursday afternoon.

The father of one of the two children killed in the massacre identified the victim as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel.

Here is the full transcript of the family's statement:

"Yesterday, a coward decided to take our 8-year-old son, Fletcher, away from us. Because of their actions, we will never be allowed 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.

"Fletcher loved his family, friends, fishing, cooking and any sport that he was allowed to play. While the hole in our hearts and lives will never be filled, I hope that in time,

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