PALM BAY, Fla. – The St. Joseph Catholic community in Palm Bay is mourning the loss of two of their own who were found murdered over the weekend amid a Palm Bay shooting investigation, the Diocese of Orlando said in a statement Monday afternoon. Most Reverend John Noonan confirmed the identity of the two killed as Father Robert “Bob” Hoeffner and his sister, Sally. Father Hoeffner had served as a priest with compassion and humility throughout his priesthood, according to Noonan.
Police were called to a domestic disturbance at a home on Forgal Avenue NE in Palm Bay, which resulted in a tragic shooting. The suspect, identified as Brandon Kapas, 24, reportedly caused a disruption and damaged property during a birthday party at the home. The situation escalated, leading to a series of tragic events. Kapas shot and killed his grandfather before being confronted by the police, leading to a fatal exchange of gunfire that resulted in his death and the injury of two officers.
While investigating the case, officers found an “arsenal of weapons” inside a vehicle and discovered two more victims at a different location. The vehicle was registered to a retired priest who had been found shot and killed at the residence alongside his sister, adding to the tragedy of the incident.
Friends, neighbors, and members of the community expressed shock and sorrow over the loss of Father Hoeffner and his sister. Retired and beloved by the community, Father Hoeffner’s tragic demise leaves many in disbelief. The local community mourns the loss of these lives and prays for the families affected by this act of violence.
The motive for the shootings remains unknown, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) is conducting an investigation due to the nature of the case. The tragic incident has left the community in shock and disbelief as they try to make sense of the senseless violence that has caused a great deal of pain and suffering.