Suspect in death of St. Johns priest: 'Please forgive me'

BURKE COUNTY, Ga. — The man suspected in the death of a St. Johns County priest has been charged with murder and gunshots wounds have been established as the cause of death of remains believed to be Father Rene Robert's.

Steven Murray, 28, was formally charged on Wednesday.

Officials said they cannot yet confirm the remains found Monday night are Father Rene's because of their condition.

They are awaiting dental records from Florida to confirm the identity of the body.

The Diocese of St. Augustine released a statement about the charge:

"We are glad to see the case is progressing and that he has been formally charged. We are thankful for the efforts of all the law enforcement agencies that have come together to investigate this case and are quickly seeking prosecution."

Authorities said Murray killed Father Rene, 71, on April 10 and dumped his body in a remote area in Waynesboro, Georgia. Law enforcement officials said Murray led them to the body Monday night.

Murray appeared in court in Waynesboro on Wednesday. Afterward, Action News Jax's Bridgette Matter questioned Murray as he left court.

"Very sorry. If anybody loves Father Rene, they'll forgive me because he was a man of God and forgiveness is forgiveness," Murray said.

Bridgette Matter asked Murray what happened in Father Rene's car.

"I have mental problems and I lost control of myself. I apologize," Murray said.

Bridgette then asked Murray if he had anything to say to his children.

"I'm sorry. Please forgive me. If y'all love him, you'll forgive me because he was a man of God," Murray said.

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