Phoenix shooting leaves one priest, Kenneth Walker, dead, one injured
Father Kenneth Walker, 29, and Father Joseph Terra, 56, with Bishop Thomas Olmstead (right) in May. photo/Catholic Online
A shooting in a downtown Phoenix Catholic church June 11 resulted left one priest dead and another critically injured. Police are now seeking help from the community as no suspect has been identified.
Walker, who was shot and killed, is the associate pastor at the Mother of Mercy Mission. Terra, the pastor, was identified as the priest who survived but remained in critical but stable condition, according to authorities.
Police said Terra, 56, was “physically harmed” but not stabbed or shot. He was the one who called 911.
We are stunned and deeply saddened to learn of the tragic assault perpetrated last night against Fr. Joseph Terra and Fr. Kenneth Walker, two religious order priests who belong to the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter.
Fr. Walker’s life was taken. Fr. Terra remains in critical condition but stable.
The reported attack occurred at Mater Misericordiae Mission in Phoenix.
The police are still gathering information and trying to sort through the details of this senseless act of violence. We ask that people offer prayers for both priests, the religious community, their families and the parish.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
