Man Charged with Murder in Fatal Shooting of Los Angeles Bishop
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Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced on February 22, 2023, that Carlos Medina, aged 61, was charged with the murder of Auxiliary Bishop David G. O’Connell. The murder occurred on February 18, 2023, at a home located in Hacienda Heights.
The 69-year-old victim was found dead at the scene of the crime on Janlu Avenue in Hacienda Heights. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the case.
O’Connell was known for his dedication to making neighborhoods safer, healthier, and always serving with love and compassion. District Attorney Gascón referred to the murder as “a brutal act of violence against a person who dedicated his life to making our neighborhoods safer, healthier, and always serving with love and compassion.” He added, “As Catholics around Los Angeles and the nation start the holy season of Lent, let us reflect on Bishop O’Connell’s life of service and dedication to those in greatest need of our care. Charging Mr. Medina will never repair the tremendous harm that was caused by this callous act, but it does take us one step closer to accountability.”
Medina was charged with one count of murder and a special allegation that he personally used a firearm. He is set to be arraigned on February 22, 2023, in Department 30 of the Foltz Criminal Justice Center. Medina is the husband of O’Connell’s housekeeper and was later arrested on February 20, 2023, in Torrance.
The Catholic community in Los Angeles and the nation is mourning the loss of Bishop O’Connell. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are urging anyone with information about the murder to come forward.
Bishop O’Connell’s family and friends have described him as a gentle, caring, and dedicated man who had a heart for the community. He was known for his tireless work in helping the poor and underprivileged.
Medina’s motive for the murder is currently unknown. However, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the case and will release more information as it becomes available.
The murder has shocked and saddened the community of Los Angeles, and people across the country have been expressing their condolences to Bishop O’Connell’s family and friends. Many have also expressed their hope that justice will be served and that Medina will be held accountable for his actions.
The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department have pledged to do everything in their power to bring justice to Bishop O’Connell and his family. They are urging anyone with information about the murder to come forward and help them in their investigation.
