A congregation in San Diego County has been left in shock after their pastor, Felipe Ascencio, was fatally shot inside his home on Sunday afternoon.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a suspect is in custody, though the motive has not been disclosed. The case remains under investigation, according to KGTV.
Ascencio, who led Templo Monte Horeb, was remembered by church members as more than just a preacher.
Miguel Hernandez, a congregant, told the outlet, “For a moment, it was just something we couldn’t believe. Even on Wednesday, we had church, and we were still thinking that he was going to walk in and say hello to everyone.”
Others described him as a mentor and father figure. “He left an example that we should all follow—to love one another,” said Francisco Tomas. “He was a good friend, a good husband, a loving father, the best pastor anybody can have.”
Ascencio is survived by his wife and two children.
A GoFundMe has been launched to support the family, with organizers writing, “This sudden loss has placed a great burden on the family. Any contribution, no matter the size, will mean so much and bring comfort during this painful time.”