Son of Pastor Reportedly Kills Wife, Friend, and Another Pastor in Bradenton, Florida
Florida police are searching for Andres "Andy" Avalos, 33, who is wanted for questioning in relation to three murders, including that of a pastor, that took place on Thursday afternoon.
Avalos is believed to have shot and killed Pastor James "Tripp" Battle, 31, at the Bayshore Baptist Church in Bradenton, Florida. While responding to that call, police also learned of two women who were shot and killed at a nearby home. One of those victims was Avalos' wife, Amber, 33, and the other was her friend, Denise Potter, 46. The couple had six children, and they are all in the custody of a relative.
Avalos' father, Andy, is also a minister at the Bayshore Baptist Church. He was unharmed, and the younger Avalos has not been seen since the shooting. Authorities found the vehicle he was last seen driving on Thursday night but there was no evidence of Avalos. He is still at large and should be considered armed and dangerous, authorities warned.
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"We don't know exactly what transpired," Dave Bristow, spokesman for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office told the Associated Press. "We don't know if whether or not he (Avalos) is still alive. We presume he is."
Pastor Battle had two young children and is survived by them and his wife, Joy. The entire congregation has been shaken by the murders, and the increase of information that is revealed about the crime.
"We have to be strong for Joy," parishioner Linda Stewart told the Bradenton Herald. "I don't know how she will get through this."
The church is still planning to hold its traditional Sunday service but will honor the memories of their loved ones.
"Trip would be saying, 'Okay guys, tell those not living a full Salvation life to go forth and make the decision today,'" congregant Judy Smith told the Herald. "The Rev. Bob Allen will fill in for Tripp and give the message and I am sure it will also be an unofficial celebration of Tripp's life. Brother Bob was among many members that Tripp had in Bradenton."
