Suspect in custody after Wichita Catholic church vandalized, statues destroyed

Officers responding to the scene near 19th and Arkansas found extensive damage inside the church, including statues, candles, and glass destroyed. Authorities also reported hate speech written on the property and a burned American flag, reports KESQ.

“Recognizing the severity of this crime, WPD officers and investigators—alongside the ATF—immediately launched a full-scale investigation. Our dedicated Crime Scene Investigation team worked diligently to analyze evidence, leading to the swift identification of a suspect,” Wichita police said in a Facebook statement Sunday morning.

By early Sunday, officers tracked down and arrested Michael Gonzalez, a Saline County man, in the 2800 block of North Hillside around 2:20 am. Jail records show Gonzalez faces charges of burglary, criminal desecration, and criminal damage to property. He is also being held on contempt of court and parole violation charges.

According to the Kansas Department of Corrections, Gonzalez was already on parole for previous convictions in Saline County, including criminal threat, criminal damage to property, and burglary.

“This reprehensible act of vandalism will not be tolerated,” Wichita Police Chief Joe Sullivan said. “Our officers and investigators worked tirelessly to bring this suspect to justice. I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff, civilian and commissioned. Our commitment to protecting every member of this community remains unwavering.”

"This is the hate crime scene at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Wichita. After forcing their way inside, statues were destroyed, glass smashed and other extensive damage exacted upon this sacred space," the Kansas Catholic Conference said in a statement, noting that the parish was largely Latino. "A Satanic website was scrawled on a wall. This is the face of evil. This is the same type of group that will be holding a Satanic worship ritual on the grounds on the Kansas State Capitol on March 28."

The investigation remains ongoing.