Priest one of three people killed in Florida shooting

Garrett Phillips
·2 min read

TAMPA (WFLA) — A shooting in Palm Bay on Sunday that left two police officers injured also claimed the lives of a community priest and his sister, according to a statement from the Diocese of Orlando.

Father Robert “Bob” Hoeffner, a retired catholic priest, and his sister Sally were two of the three victims who were shot and killed on Sunday before the suspect’s shootout with Palm Bay Police.

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The Diocese of Orlando released the following statement:

We mourn with the St. Joseph Catholic community in Palm Bay over the tragic loss of these four lives as we pray for the repose of their souls and extend our prayers to their families. I share with you that Father Robert “Bob” Hoeffner and his sister, Sally, both were tragically murdered yesterday. Throughout his priesthood, Father Hoeffner served the people of God with compassion and humility. We will miss his grace-filled presence. We know he and his sister are received by the Lord with mercy and love. We also pray for the two police officers who were injured yesterday and for our public servants who safeguard our community, and extend our gratitude to them during this difficult time.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend John Noonan
Bishop of Orlando

The Diocese of Orlando

Palm Bay Police said during a news conference Monday that officers responded to a domestic disturbance situation around 2:19 p.m. on Sunday. The uncle of the suspect, 24-year-old Brandon Kapas, reportedly told officers the suspect might have weapons on him or in his vehicle.

After exiting the residence, the suspect reportedly ignored officers and made a “hasty” movement towards his vehicle. After continually refusing to comply with the officers, officers attempted to taze the suspect but it was ineffective.

The officers attempted to restrain Kapas but he broke free and began firing at the officers, according to police. Two officers were struck during the exchange of gunfire.

Police said the suspect shot and killed his grandfather in addition to Father Hoeffner and Sally.

Kapas was shot and killed by officers on the scene.

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