Bishop Earl Fernandes | Diocese of Columbus website

In response to the tragic shooting death of Andre Hill, an unarmed African American man, in Columbus on Tuesday, Bishop Robert J. Brennan has expressed his deep sorrow and offered his prayers for all those affected by this incident.

Bishop Brennan stated, "I am truly heartbroken by the recent shooting of Andre Hill. Our community continues to experience the tragic loss of life in a police officer related incident, despite all the efforts these past weeks and months."

The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) has launched an investigation into the shooting, and Bishop Brennan has urged the community to be patient as they await the findings. He emphasized the importance of prayer during this difficult time, saying, "I pray earnestly, and I encourage people to pray for all those involved: for the eternal rest of Mr. Hill, for the consolation of his family, for all in law enforcement, who are also suffering, and for our entire community, especially those who identify with this pain most deeply."

Bishop Brennan's message also called for healing and hope in the community, particularly during the Christmas season. "May Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose nativity we proclaim these days, be our light in the darkness and bring healing and hope to our community," he said.

The shooting of Andre Hill has once again highlighted the ongoing issues of racial disparities and excessive use of force by law enforcement. It serves as a painful reminder of the need for continued efforts to address these systemic problems and work towards a more just society.

As the investigation into the shooting unfolds, the community is grappling with the loss of another life and the deep pain experienced by Mr. Hill's family and loved ones. It is a time for reflection, unity, and a renewed commitment to ensuring that every life is valued and protected.

The tragic death of Andre Hill has sparked calls for accountability and justice. It is a somber reminder that the work to address the underlying issues and build trust between law enforcement and the community is far from over.

The statements from Bishop Robert J. Brennan serve as a reminder of the importance of coming together as a community to support one another during times of tragedy. The prayers and thoughts of many are with the family of Andre Hill and the entire Columbus community as they navigate this painful loss.

As the investigation into the shooting continues, it is hoped that transparency and accountability will prevail, leading to a meaningful resolution for all those affected by this tragic incident.