BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (BP) — An Alabama pastor has been charged with the murder of his wife who was found dead in their home in July 2013, according to a breaking story posted on The Alabama Baptist newspaper’s website.
Richard Shahan, former children and families pastor at First Baptist Church, Birmingham, was arrested Wednesday (Jan. 1). At the time of his arrest he was attempting to board a flight to Frankfurt, Germany at the Nashville International Airport.
A warrant for Shahan’s arrest was signed Dec. 31. Myfoxal.com reported First Baptist put Shahan on paid leave after Karen Shahan’s body was discovered at the couple’s house in Homewood.
The Alabama Baptist reported Dec. 19, 2013, that Shahan was planning to serve three years with Bible Mission International in Germany to develop teaching and discipleship materials for former Soviet countries.
First Baptist released the following statement on their website:
“All of us were saddened by the unexpected news that Richard Shahan was arrested by Homeland Security just moments before his planned flight departure for Frankfurt, Germany. There he was to assume his new role working with the Children’s ministry of Bible Mission International, primarily in Kazakhstan.
“As we know, on November 29 Richard announced his plans to pursue this mission ministry. His resignation from First Baptist Church of Birmingham was effective December 31, 2013.
“Our Prayers go out to Richard and his family. We trust that eventually truth and justice can prevail.”
During a televised press conference Thursday afternoon, authorities were unable to give details on motive and said the investigation is ongoing.
–30–
Get Baptist Press headlines and breaking news on Twitter (@BaptistPress), Facebook (Facebook.com/BaptistPress ) and in your email ( baptistpress.com/SubscribeBP.asp).
