Police arrested a man they believe violently killed a Catholic priest in Eureka, California.
“Gary Lee Bullock was taken into custody in connection with the death of Reverend Eric Freed. ... Police say Bullock with arrested for public intoxication on Tuesday and released shortly before midnight.” (Via Al Jazeera)
“The 56-year-old priest was found dead inside the rectory at St. Bernard Church on Wednesday after he failed to show up to morning mass.” (Via CNN)
Eureka Police Chief Andy Mills told CNN Bullock was arrested Thursday in Garberville. Mills believes Bullock is connected to the murder because of evidence found at the scene.
Upon learning Freed was the victim, the town’s mayor described him as a respected person in Eureka.
"Father Eric was a friend of mine ... just a tremendous person. And this is an absolutely tremendous loss not only for the St. Bernard’s parish, but for our community." (Via KIEM)
According to the Eureka Times-Standard, Freed was well-loved by his parishioners ever since he became St. Bernard's pastor in August 2011.
He also reportedly taught in the religious studies department at Humboldt University for more than 10 years. (Via WXIX)
