SENECA, Kan. — The tight-knit community of Seneca, Kansas, is reeling from the shocking and tragic death of Father Arul Carasala, a beloved priest who was fatally shot outside the rectory of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church on Thursday, April 3, 2025. The incident has left many in the small town, which has a population of about 2,100, grappling with grief and disbelief.
Father Carasala, 57, was found suffering from gunshot wounds around 3 p.m. local time. He was quickly transported to Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation reported that Gary Hermesch, 66, from Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested shortly after the shooting and charged with first-degree murder. He is currently being held in the Nemaha County Jail on a $1 million bond.
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas announced Father Carasala's death on social media, expressing his heartbreak over the loss. "This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend," he wrote. Naumann also called for prayers for the perpetrator, stating, "Let us also pray for the perpetrator, that God may touch and transform his heart." He assured the community that there was no ongoing threat.
Father Brian Schieber, a Vicar General for the Archdiocese, echoed the sentiments of shock and sorrow within the community. "We have no idea what the motive for this was. And, you know, we're really praying for the person that killed Father Arul as well," Schieber told Fox News Digital. He described Carasala as a deeply loved figure who knew his parishioners by name and had a profound impact on their lives.
Witnesses reported that the shooting appeared to be unprovoked. Kris Anderson, the parish's director of religious education, mentioned that an older man approached Carasala and shot him three times. The motive for this tragic event remains unclear, and authorities are continuing their investigation.
Father Carasala had been a pastor at Saints Peter and Paul for over 13 years, having arrived in Kansas in 2004 after being ordained in his home Diocese of Cuddapah, India, in 1994. He became a U.S. citizen in 2011 and had served in multiple parishes throughout the archdiocese. His dedication to his faith and community was evident in the numerous weddings, baptisms, and funerals he officiated, as well as his compassionate presence to those in need.
As the community mourns, many have come together to honor Father Carasala's memory. A mass was held at the church on Thursday evening, attended by parishioners and community members who wanted to pay their respects. Greg Kohake, a longtime friend and parishioner, described the loss as akin to losing a family member. "He was our pastor, our priest, but he was also a friend. We’re a very tight-knit community. Pretty much, we know everyone," Kohake said.
The impact of Father Carasala's death extends beyond the church. Local businesses have expressed their sorrow, with employees at Seneca Variety sharing their disbelief over the violence that has struck their small town. "You don’t expect a small town to have something like this happen," said Diann Funk, who works there.
Father Carasala was known for his warmth and connection with the youth at Saints Peter and Paul School. His absence is deeply felt, especially among those who had personal connections with him. Tina Strathman, a lifelong resident, recalled how Carasala officiated her son's wedding and baptized her children. "He always had a smile on his face," Strathman said, highlighting the joy he brought to the community.
The community's grief is compounded by another recent tragedy; just a week prior, a seven-year-old girl died in an ATV crash in the county. "Seneca is going through a lot right now," Kohake noted, emphasizing the need for prayers not just for the community but for all of Christianity.
As the investigation into the shooting continues, the preliminary hearing for Hermesch is scheduled for April 15, 2025. The community remains hopeful that justice will be served while they continue to support one another through this difficult time.
Father Carasala's legacy will live on in the hearts of those he touched during his years of service. As Archbishop Naumann stated, "While we continue to mourn the loss of Father Arul, I pray that we will not lose hope. God is with us in our adversity. He can bring good out of evil. He can bring life out of death." The community of Seneca is coming together, leaning on faith and each other as they navigate this profound loss.
