5 dead after US man opens fire at church

A man gunned down four of his in-laws during a morning church service, abducted his wife and then shot her to death before he was captured nearby, authorities said.

Photo: 5 dead after US man opens fire at church

Church members wept as they watched investigators examine evidence and search for clues. Anthony Bell, 25, of Baton Rouge, was arrested Sunday at an apartment complex, where his wife was found dead, police said.

It was unclear whether Erica Bell, 24, was killed at the complex, police said. Her three children, including an infant, also taken from The Ministry of Jesus Christ church were found safe, officials said.

Erica Bell's mother, church pastor Claudia Brown, was wounded and was in serious condition at a hospital, police said, but would not provide further details.

Brown's brother, Jeffrey Howard, said his sister had been shot in the back of the head but was able to give a statement to police.

Howard said Anthony and Erica Bell had some "domestic trouble" in the past.

Anthony Bell faces charges of murder, attempted murder and kidnapping, reports the AP.

I.L.