Evangelical pastor shot dead in Brazil

(Vatican Radio) Police and prosecutors are investigating the murder of an evangelical pastor in Brazil. Pastor Charles Vidal de Souza was attacked by two gunmen in the Universal Church of the Kingdom of God, in the city of Belo Horizonte.

Police, who have already issued descriptions, say there was evidence of a struggle in the Church's office, but nothing appears to have been taken before the attackers fled, escaping in a waiting car. The pastor, who was shot at close range, collapsed and was rushed to hospital, but died soon after being admitted. Investigators are questioning whether the 34-year-old was the original intended target of the deadly attack, or surprised the two gunmen.

The murder has shocked the quiet middle-class neighborhood, which is situated some 600km from Brazil's capital, Brazilia, and caused a national outcry against gun violence, which is rampant throughout Brazil.

Listen to James Blears’ report: