Man crashes car into Raleigh parish, sets fire to sanctuary, kills himself
February 10, 2014
A 20-year-old man recently set his home on fire, crashed his car into a Raleigh parish, set fire to the sanctuary, and then killed himself by gunshot, according to a Raleigh television station report.
The January incident took place during the night; no parishioners were injured.
“With all the parishioners of St. Luke Parish along with all in the Diocese, I offer deep sympathy to the young man's family and assure them of our prayerful support, especially at this time of tragedy,” said Bishop Michael Burbidge. “We also express our gratitude to all the rescue personnel and officials who arrived so promptly on the scene and will continue to pray for them as they carry out their work.”
Parishioners now meet at a funeral home chapel for Mass.
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Further information:
- Catholic Church in Raleigh still closed after tragedy (WTVD-TV)
- Saint Luke Parish Begins Healing Process Following Damage to Church (Diocese of Raleigh)
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Posted by: hartwood01 -
Feb. 11, 2014 12:19 AM ET USA
I'm sure we will never hear the back-story on why this young man felt this was his only recourse.
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Posted by: [email protected] -
Feb. 10, 2014 10:12 PM ET USA
The movtive if available should be very interesting.
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Posted by: nix898049 -
Feb. 10, 2014 3:14 PM ET USA
Regardless of what the deceased may have intended, this parish refuses to play the victim (and, thankfully, no mention of the perpetrator's name). What a gracious community. A truly uplifting report as it turned out.
