The Diocese of Orlando acknowledged in a statement Monday afternoon that a Florida community is grieving after a beloved Catholic priest and his sister were found murdered in Palm Bay over the weekend.
Most Reverend John Noonan, Bishop of Orlando, confirmed the identities of the two murdered were Father Robert “Bob” Hefner, 76, a former priest at St. Joseph Catholic Community, and his sister Sally Joan Hefner, 69. ).
“We, along with the St. Joseph Catholic community of Palm Bay, mourn the tragic loss of these four lives, pray for their souls to rest, and send our prayers to their families. Father Robert “Bob” Hefner and , his sister Sally, were both tragically killed,” Pastor Noonan wrote.
“Throughout his priesthood, Father Hefner served God’s people with compassion and humility. We will miss his gracious presence,” Pastor Noonan continued.
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Father Robert “Bob” Hefner, 76, a priest at St. Joseph Catholic Community, was shot and killed. (Palm Bay Police Department)
The shooting occurred Sunday afternoon in Palm Bay, a city about 120 kilometers southeast of Orlando, after a domestic disturbance broke out during a birthday party.
Palm Bay police said the suspect, 24-year-old Brandon Capas, shot and killed his grandfather. While responding to the scene, officers also discovered the bodies of Father Bob and his sister.
Palm Bay Police Chief Mariano Augello said in a news conference Monday afternoon that when officers arrived, they were met by Capas’ uncle, who told law enforcement he had a problem with Capas and had weapons on Capas’ body and in his car. He said he told them he might have it in his possession.
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Palm Bay police found a cache of weapons in the suspected shooter’s car. (Palm Bay Police Department)
Because the suspect may be armed, police said they taped Kapas to prevent any serious incident, which resulted in a brief scuffle between Kapas and the officer. said the chief.
Police believe Mr. Capas was responsible for all three deaths, and he was shot dead by police after a brief chase on Sunday.
Officers said the car Brandon Capas was driving had several other guns and other weapons in it, which may indicate he was planning a larger attack. He said he thinks there is.
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The St. Joseph Catholic Church community in Palm Bay, Florida, is mourning the loss of Father Robert “Bob” Hefner and his sister Sally, who were shot and killed over the weekend. (Fox 35 Orlando)
Police said the car Brandon Kappas was driving was owned by the priest and his sister, but they could not determine the relationship between Kappas and the Hefners.
Officers added that Capas’ criminal history included driving under the influence and resisting arrest.
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Palm Bay police say suspect Brandon Capas shot and killed his grandfather. While responding to the scene, they also discovered the bodies of former St. Joseph Catholic Community Father Robert “Bob” Hefner and his sister. (Palm Bay Police Department)
Police said the motive for the shooting remains unknown and the investigation continues.
Officials said at a news conference Tuesday that the two injured officers, Stephen Ball and Nicolas Franze, are expected to recover.
