#BreakingNews a Catholic Priest, Fr Stephen Ugwu, is Attacked with a Machete in Louisiana, USA - Authorities Arrest Suspect Charged with a Hate Crime

Father Stephen Ugwu, Pastor of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Melville, Louisiana, USA, was attacked in a hate crime. 
Father Stephen was attacked and sliced badly with a machete, by a white man who stated that he "wanted to kill a black man today." Authorities reported the suspect stating he “wanted to kill a black man today.” Melville Police Chief Phillip Lucas says the department is contacting the FBI for assistance in the case.

The attack happened on the church grounds and the fire department had to be called due to smoke coming out of the priest home because he was cooking when the attacker broke into the home causing the pots to burn, and the need for the fire department assistance. 

St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office wrote, Johnny Dwayne Neely, W/M, age 58, 158 Phillips Loop, Palmetto, LA 71353, Attempted second degree murder, hate crimes, home invasion, bench warrant. Arrested by Melville Police Department.

“The Diocese of Lafayette confirms that Father Stephen Ugwu, pastor of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Melville, was violently attacked yesterday afternoon on the church campus,” Rolfes said. “Father Ugwu was transported to an area hospital and is in stable condition. The Melville Police Department is handling the investigation. We wish to thank all who have been praying for Father Ugwu and request that you continue to do so.”