Parishioners in shock. Los Angeles Auxiliary Bishop David O’Connell was killed in his home over the weekend. On Monday, the city’s sheriff, Robert Luna, announced the arrest of a suspect.
Born in Ireland, David O’Connell, 69, has served the underprivileged community of Los Angeles for more than 40 years. He played the role of “peacemaker” between gangs, notably in Hacienda Heights, a mainly Hispanic neighborhood, where he lived. He was found dead in his home, shot in the chest.
Housekeeper’s husband arrested
Contrary to initial speculation, his death does not appear to be related to his work with members of rival gangs. The suspect, Carlos Medina, is the husband of the auxiliary bishop’s housekeeper. A witness contacted police, claiming Medina was acting strangely, and claimed David O’Connell owed him money.
Police found two firearms at the suspect’s home, which are being analyzed, and the same dark SUV seen by CCTV cameras parking at the Bishop’s home just before his murder.
“Every day, David O’Connell showed compassion for the poor, the homeless, immigrants and all those living on the margins of society,” reacted the Archbishop of Los Angeles, José Gomez, expressing his concern. “great sadness”.