SENECA, Kan. — A Kansas priest has died after being fatally shot on Thursday.

Archbishop Joseph Naumann announced the death of Fr. Arul Carasala on social media. In the post, Naumann said Carasala had served the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kan. for 20 years, including time as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. He was currently serving the parish communities of Saints Peter and Paul in Seneca, which is about 25 miles south of Pawnee City, Neb.

“This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend,” Naumann said. “His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care.”

A Kansas Bureau of Investigation spokesperson told KSHB TV that its agents responded to Seneca to assist the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office with a homicide investigation. Naumann said in his post that there is no ongoing threat to the community. Further information about the crime was not immediately available.

The Knights of Columbus led a Rosary Thursday night at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca. Naumann planned to celebrate a Mass there starting at 7:30 p.m.