New Generation Church in Dallas was the scene of a murder on Easter Sunday.
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According to police, 31-year-old youth minister Denzel Branch was shot to death by the pastor’s son, according to police. The suspect stated that he had an affair with Branch’s wife before their divorce.
Dallas Police Department records reveal that Joshua Bell (who also goes by Joshua Andrews), 30, was charged in Branch’s death. Bell is also the son of New Generation Church leader Eric Andrews.
Right before the shooting happened, officials stated that Branch and Bell had an argument that turned into a physical altercation. Eyewitnesses explained that Branch punched Bell in the face, and Bell retaliated by pulling out his pistol and firing several shots.
Bell told police that he followed Branch and kept firing his weapon. He stopped only after “he saw (Branch) laying on the middle of the road.” The victim, a father of three, later died from his wounds at a local hospital.
Per the arrest affidavit, the suspect also “stated he has been involved in an intimate relationship since May 2023 with (Branch’s ex-wife), who divorced (Branch) around November 2023.”
Earlier this week, New Generation Church wrote a message on Facebook saying it was saddened by the tragic event. “Our hearts are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that took place down the street from our church after our morning service yesterday,” the church said.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone’s prayers and concern, and we ask for your continued prayers for the families and our church family as we navigate through these difficult times. Psalms 46:1 states, ‘God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.’ In the days to come, we will trust in God’s Word, continue in hope, and look to God, who is the author and finisher of our faith.”
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