March 29, 2024
Handyman’s confession in Bishop’s slaying
HACIENDA HEIGHTS - A 61-year-old man who prosecutors said has admitted that he killed Bishop David G. O'Connell was charged Wednesday with one count of murder in the shooting death of the much lauded religious leader.

Carlos Medina, a handyman whose wife worked as a housekeeper for the bishop , also faces a special allegation of using a firearm during the crime, Los Angeles County Dist. Atty.

George Gascón announced during a news conference Wednesday. If convicted, he could face 35 years to life in prison.

In detailing the charges, Gascón said Medina admitted to the killing to investigators.

“I know this has been a shock for our community,” Gascón said. “This was a brutal act of violence against a person who dedicated his life to making our neighborhoods safer, healthier and always served with love.”

Medina is accused of killing the 69-year-old priest Saturday in his Hacienda Heights home, where he lived alone.

“His loss is one that I really feel will be felt for years to come,” Gascón said. “Charging Mr. Medina will never repair the tremendous harm that was caused by this callous act.”

O'Connell was found dead Saturday in his bedroom with multiple gunshot wounds, Gascón said.

In an interview, Gascón told the Los Angeles Times O'Connell was likely asleep when the shooting occurred.

“By all counts, Bishop O'Connell was a saint for Los Angeles,” he said.
Story Date: March 8, 2023
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