OGDEN — A widespread police search after a man was shot and injured inside the St. James Catholic Church.
Police arrested Charles Richard Jennings, (pictured)35, on Interstate 84.
The search for Jennings started just after 11:30 Sunday morning. Police said Jennings entered the church and specifically targeted the victim, who he is related to by marriage.
Police said Jennings fled the scene in a stolen 1996 white GMC quad-cab, short-bed truck with license plate number 584 UTV. Several agencies participated in a state-wide search.
A parishioner who spoke on condition she wouldn't be identified said the victim is a longtime member of the congregation, and the grandfather of Jenning's son.
The victim was shot in the back of the head in the church, 495 N. Harrison Boulevard. He was taken to McKay Dee Hospital in critical condition.
Another member of the congregation said the shooting happened as parishioners were lining up to take Communion. Once the shot was fired, she said people began diving under pews. She said several men chased after the shooter.
After Jennings left the church, police said he stole the truck at gunpoint. The owner of the truck said he was in his backyard holding his young daughter when Jennings hopped the fence, pointed a gun at his chest and demanded the keys to the truck.
Jennings has a lengthy criminal history, including felony charges for domestic violence and drug possession.
More information will be posted as it becomes available.
— Emilee Eagar SHARED FROM DESERET NEWS
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