Catholic priest in small Nebraska community dies after being attacked in church

A Catholic clergyman in a small community in Nebraska tragically passed away following an assault within the confines of a church rectory, as reported by local authorities.

The Reverend Stephen Gutgsell suffered an attack during what has been described as an intrusion at the rectory of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, according to an official statement released on Sunday by the Archdiocese of Omaha.

In the wake of this distressing incident, Gutgsell was promptly transported to a medical facility in Omaha, where he succumbed to the injuries sustained, according to church representatives. Fort Calhoun, with a population of approximately 1,000 residents, is situated approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of Omaha.

Law enforcement responded to a 911 call reporting an attempted break-in at the church, received shortly after 5 a.m. Upon their arrival at the scene, officers discovered Gutgsell with injuries and an alleged assailant within the premises. The authorities swiftly took the suspect into custody, as confirmed by Washington County Sheriff Mike Robinson in an official statement.

It is essential to note that this incident remains under active investigation, and pertinent details, including the identity of the suspect and the circumstances surrounding the demise, will be withheld pending further inquiry, as stated by Sheriff Robinson.

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