(NECN/ABC) - A gunman's bullets cut short a Sunday sermon, along with the life of the man delivering it. Today, shocked residents of an Illinois town are mourning their beloved pastor, even as they include the killer in their prayers.

The man suspected of murdering Reverend Fred Winters may be charged as soon as tomorrow. The 27-year-old suspect is in critical condition at St. Louis University Hospital -- from a knife wound to the throat.

Authorities say Sunday services were underway at Maryville, Illinois' First Baptist Church when Winters walked in, exchanged words with 45-year-old Winters and began shooting.

Police say the suspect had no criminal record, and congregants did not recognize him.

Two other parishioners were hurt in the incident. One man remains in serious condition.

ABC's Diana Alvear reports from Chicago.


http://www.necn.com/Boston/Nation/2009/03/09/Man-accused-of-killing/1236613989.html