Late Term Abortion Provider Dr. George Tiller Killed by Gunman

The killing of Dr. George Tiller brought immediate condemnation from the Pro-Life community.

WICHITA, Kansas (Catholic Online) - UPDATE: F.B.I. reports indicate that an arrest has been made. The suspect was apprehended without incident. His name has now been released, Scott Roeder. He is 51 years old. He was arrested 170 miles away from the scene of the murder and has not been charged.

Just after 10 A.M. Sunday morning, while he was attending church services at Reformation Lutheran Church in Wichita, Kansas, Dr. George Tiller, the controversial provider of late term abortions, was shot and killed. Tiller was 67 years old.

Reports indicate that that the fatal shots were fired from an unknown assailant using a handgun in the church lobby. Authorities are searching for a Blue Ford Taurus, License plate #225BAB which was seen leaving shortly after the killing. Witnesses indicated to authorities that a white male was seen leaving in the vehicle.

Operation Rescue issued the following Press Release:

"We are shocked at this morning's disturbing news that Mr. Tiller was gunned down. Operation Rescue has worked for years through peaceful, legal means, and through the proper channels to see him brought to justice. We denounce vigilantism and the cowardly act that took place this morning. We pray for Mr. Tiller's family that they will find comfort and healing that can only be found in Jesus Christ."

Fr. Frank Pavone, National Director of Priests for Life issued the following statement:

"I am saddened to hear of the killing of George Tiller this morning. At this point, we do not know the motives of this act, or who is behind it, whether an angry post-abortive man or woman, or a misguided activist, or an enemy within the abortion industry, or a political enemy frustrated with the way Tiller has escaped prosecution. We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment.

"But whatever the motives, we at Priests for Life continue to insist on a culture in which violence is never seen as the solution to any problem. Every life has to be protected, without regard to their age or views or actions."

Phil Kline, the Pro-Life former Attorney General of Kansas who had tried, unsuccessfully, to prosecute Tiller, released the following statement: "I am stunned by this lawless and violent act which must be condemned and should be met with the full force of law. We join in lifting prayer that God's grace and presence rest with Dr. Tiller's family and friends."

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