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Man faces first degree murder charge in death of pastor

Slain Pastor Fred Winters
Slain Pastor Fred Winters

By AP/KWMU

Edwardsville, Ill. – The 27-year-old man charged in the shooting death of a Metro East pastor had allegedly marked Sunday as "death day" in his planner.

Terry Sedlacek of Troy is charged with first degree murder and aggravated battery in the death of the Rev. Fred Winters of the First Baptist Church of Maryville. Sedlacek is accused of shooting the pastor during his Sunday sermon, and then pulling a knife and attacking two parishioners who attempted to subdue him.

Prosecutors in Madison County, Ill. say Sedlacek brought enough ammunition with him to kill 30 people, but the gun apparently jammed after he fired four rounds.

Prosecutors have not speculated on a motive for the crime, but Sedlacek's attorney says his client's mental and physical health have deteriorated since Sedlacek was bitten by a tick years ago and contracted Lyme disease.

Sedlacek is being held without bond.

FUNERAL SCHEDULED

Funeral services have been set for Pastor Fred Winters.

Visitation will be Thursday from 2 until 8 at the First Baptist Church. The funeral is set for 10.30 a.m. Friday, and the burial will be private.

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