Owerri Catholic Archdiocese Reacts As Priest Kills Boy For ‘Shooting Banger’ During New Year Cross Over Service

The Catholic archdiocese of Owerri has confirmed the death of a boy who was reportedly shot to death during the cross-over service at St. Columbus Catholic Church in the Amaimo area of Imo state.

The boy was reportedly killed by a priest identified as Joseph Enyinnaya.

As earlier reported by Naija News, the tragic event occurred during the New Year Mass on January 1, 2025, when a young boy allegedly set off a banger inside the church.

Eyewitnesses claim that in response to the disruption, the priest drew a revolver and shot the boy.

Another person was also injured in the process.

While confirming the unfortunate incident in a statement on Friday, the archbishop of Owerri diocese, Lucius Ugorji, expressed deep regret for the happening.

He extended condolences to the family of the deceased and called for calm while also praying for the quick recovery of the injured person.

“The Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri highly regrets the shooting incident that took place on the eve of the New Year at the premises of St. Columba’s Catholic Church Amaimo, leading to the death of a young man and the wounding of another.

“The Archdiocese of Owerri condoles with the bereaved family, and prays for the happy repose of the dead, and the speedy recovery of the injured,” the statement reads.

The Imo State Police have confirmed the arrest of the priest and the recovery of the teenager’s body, which has been taken to Atta Ikeduru Mortuary.

The State Police Command spokesman, Henry Okoye, stated that an in-depth investigation has been launched to uncover the full details of the event.