A high-ranking Los Angeles Catholic community official has been shot, resulting in his untimely death. The victim is Auxiliary Bishop David O'Connell, whose sudden death has caused an uproar among the public.
On Saturday, the police received a call about the incident at about 1 pm. The paramedics arrived on the scene and found O'Connell with a gunshot wound. They couldn't save the bishop, for he was already in a critical condition when they arrived. Widespread fear has enraged the community, and people are hoping for a quick investigation to bring the criminals to justice.
Los Angeles Archdiocese Mourns
According to LAist, the Los Angeles Archdiocese is mourning the loss of one of Auxiliary Bishop David O'Connell, who was found dead in his home this weekend. The news has alarmed the community, and people are hoping for the investigation to come through quickly and know the motives of the criminal.
Archbishop José Gomez expressed his deep sadness and shock at the news of O'Connell's passing. He described O'Connell as a peacemaker with a heart for the poor and the immigrant and someone dedicated to building a community that honored and protected the sanctity and dignity of every human life. The community is grieving, and they are hoping for a swift resolution to the case to bring the culprits to justice.
Authorities suspect the crime was a homicide. The investigation is ongoing, and the details surrounding the circumstances of the bishop's death remain unclear. According to a report in AP News, it is still not known whether the perpetrator specifically targeted O'Connell or whether his religion played a role in the incident. The bishop's body was found, but no further information has been released about the location or how the discovery was made.
O'Connell's passing is a significant loss to his congregation, and his many years of service as a priest are a testament to his commitment to his faith. His appointment as an auxiliary bishop recognised his hard work and dedication to the Church, and his passing will be deeply felt throughout the community.
Also Read: Heroic Virginia Teacher Sacrifices Own Safety to Protect Students, Survives Gunshot Wounds
People Close to the Bishop were Saddened and Gave Their Deep Condolences and Respect
The people close to and knew Bishop David O'Connell was deeply saddened by his death. According to ABC News, Glendy Perez, a parishioner who had known the bishop, said he has a gentle, kind, and humble nature. She described him as a loving individual with a remarkable healing gift.
Whenever Perez would attend the bishop's ceremonies, she felt like she was receiving a gift of healing. O'Connell was born in Ireland and came to Los Angeles to serve in the Archdiocese. He spent many years as an associate pastor and pastor at various parishes before being appointed as an auxiliary bishop by Pope Francis in 2015. The legacy of the late priest will continue to strive as he left a mark on the people he left behind. The culprit of the scene is yet to be found, but the investigation is now heightening.
Related Article: Pastor Shot Dead In Front Of Pregnant Wife And Son While Preaching Gospel On The Street
