Priest's sister hopes for death penalty for his accused killer

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The family of a slain priest is speaking out after they learned the suspect in his death was charged with murder.

Action News Jax Ben Becker spoke exclusively with Father Rene's family and was the first to tell them about murder charges against Steven Murray.

"I hope he gets the death penalty," says Deborah Bedard, Father Rene's sister. "I know my brother didn't believe in that but we know he killed him and I want the death penalty for him."

Brian Robert said he warned his brother about working with former prisoners like Murray who could put him in danger.

"I said, 'Father Rene, I can't be down there and sit outside your apartment or spend the night in your apartment. If somebody has intentions you have to be careful,'" said Robert.

Father Rene's sister said she also warned him.

"'Father Rene Dear God, you can't trust everybody, you can't believe every word you hear from them.' But he did. He wanted to trust everybody," Bedard said.

She said she has a message for Murray.

"Why did you kill my brother, who was such a good person and helping you, why did you kill my brother?"

Murray led investigators to Father Rene's body on Monday.

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