Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell, a Catholic bishop, was shot to death in his home. The shooting took place last Saturday in Hacienda Heights, California.
The suspect has since been arrested by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. According to CNN, the sheriff’s department is investigating the bishop’s death as a murder.
The bishop was known for his peacemaking. During his life, he was dedicated to building a community that protects and honors human life.
O’Connell, 69, was born in County Cork, Ireland. The bishop was ordained in the Los Angeles Archdiocese in 1979. His death has sparked widespread grief for those who knew him.
Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles released a statement in which he expressed his sadness at the news of the bishop’s death and urged people to pray for him and his family.
The suspect in connection with the murder has not yet been identified, but the sheriff’s department has announced that more information will be provided about the case in the coming days.
The death of Bishop O’Connell has prompted an outpouring of tributes from those who knew him, with many people remembering him as a kind and compassionate man who dedicated his life to helping others.
On Sunday evening, a vigil was held in Hacienda Heights to mourn the loss of the bishop.