MELVILLE, La. — A Melville priest was in critical condition last night after being attacked with a machete.
The incident occurred at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church on July 13, 2023, between 6 and 7 pm, when the suspect approached the priest and asked for food. However, after the priest denied the request, witnesses reported that the suspect launched a machete attack.
Melville Police Chief Phillip Lucas expressed concern that the attack may have been racially motivated, citing the words used by the suspect. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Despite the severity of the attack, nurses at the hospital reported that the priest's vitals appeared stable last night, and he was talking somewhat. However, further scans are scheduled today to determine if he requires intensive care.
The suspect was apprehended and is now in custody. Johnny Dwayne Neely, 58, of Palmetto, has been charged with attempted second-degree murder, hate crimes, home invasion and a bench warrant.
The Diocese of Lafayette issued the following statement:
The Diocese of Lafayette confirms that Father Stephen Ugwu, pastor of Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Melville, was violently attacked yesterday afternoon on the church campus. Father Ugwu was transported to an area hospital and is in stable condition. The Melville Police Department is handling the investigation. We wish to thank all who have been praying for Father Ugwu and request that you continue to do so.
