Police were called to St Paul's Lutheran Church in Fort Dodge, a city in Iowa, at 5:45pm on Wednesday.
Allen Henderson, the senior pastor, 64, was unresponsive and medics began trying life-saving medical treatment before he was transported to Unity Point Trinity Regional Medical Centre.
He was later pronounced dead with injuries that seemed to have resulted from assault.
A 36 year old man from Fort Dodge was then taken into custody accused of murder and robbery.
Fort Dodge Police are investigating the death of Pastor Allen Henderson at St. Paul Lutheran's Church. Police arrested a suspect Wednesday evening and have charged him with 1st Degree Murder and 1st Degree Robbery. Hear from Capt. Ryan Gruenberg with FDPD. pic.twitter.com/zK9shss1Mg
— We Are Iowa Local 5 (@weareiowa5news) October 3, 2019
The mayor of the city has asked residents to fly flags at half-mast, saying: "Pastor Henderson was a faithful servant of the Lord and to his community, including his congregation at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fort Dodge, Iowa and in his capacity as the Chaplain for the Webster County Sheriff's Office, the Fort Dodge Police Department, the Fort Dodge Fire Department and several other public safety and first responder agencies.
"Pastor Henderson's creation of and dedication to Serving Our Servants, or S.O.S., a program providing emotional, spiritual and material support to first responders and law enforcement, has left a lasting legacy in our local law enforcement and first responder communities. Pastor Henderson's family and all who knew him have our deepest sympathies at this most difficult time. This great man will be forever remembered for his selfless acts of comfort and kindness."
The Police Department in Fort Dodge wrote in a statement: "He was a beloved member of our family and we are working with heavy hearts this evening as we move forward from this tragic incident. He will forever be remembered for his dedication and service for all of those he touched within this community and beyond."
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