By Micheal Chukwuebuka, Reporting
THE suspect who reportedly broke into a church rectory early this week and fatally stabbed a Nebraska priest, has, on Thursday, been arraigned on murder and burglary charges.
Kierre L. Williams, 43, according to Washington County Attorney M. Scott VanderSchaaf, has a lengthy criminal history from different states.
During a press briefing following the hearing, VanderSchaaf said he believes the judge took the suspect’s criminal history into advisement when setting no bond.
Williams has been convicted of at least one felony, Stonix News learnt.
According to reports making the rounds, Williams allegedly forcibly entered the rectory at the St. John’s Catholic Church in Fort Calhoun early Sunday; the victim, Rev. Stephen Gutgsell called 911 to report a possible intruder.
Gutgsell was stabbed once in the face and twice in the back.
Although first responders attempted lifesaving measures but the priest died from his injuries at a local hospital.
Williams has been charged with first-degree murder, use of a deadly weapon to commit a felony and possession of a dangerous weapon by a prohibited person.
“What we’ve got to piece together is how Mr. Williams gets into the community,” VanderSchaaf said.
The remains of 65-year-old Rev. Stephen Gutgsell will be laid to rest on Monday Dec. 18, 2023, in Omaha.
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