The Catholic Church in Curacao, a part of the Netherlands Antilles, has reported the death of Colombian priest Father Alejandro Montoya, who was found dead at his home on August 23rd.  

According to local officials, details about the killing of the priest are sketchy but it is believed that his death occurred while his home was being burglarized.  Police have found the priest’s car, which was also stolen by the assailants, and they have detained a 43 year-old suspect.

The body of Father Montoya will be taken to Medellin in Colombia on August 28th, where it will be received by brother priests and his family.

Father Montoya was born in Medellin on September 15, 1946.  He received his seminary formation in Antioquia and afterwards was sent to the island of Curacao in the Caribbean.

Bishop Luigi Antonio Secco of Willemstad expressed his sadness at the news and called on the faithful to pray for the repose of Father Montoya’s soul.