BREAKING: Kierre Williams has just pleaded guilty to the murder of Rev. Stephen Gutgsell, who was fatally stabbed in his rectory in Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, during a break-in in December 2023. This shocking turn of events confirms the community’s worst fears, as the small town grapples with the aftermath of this tragic crime.
The plea was made during a routine pretrial hearing on November 12, 2023, where Williams admitted guilt to charges of murder, burglary, and weapons possession. He faces a life sentence without the possibility of parole following this admission. The plea comes just as the town, home to approximately 1,100 residents, continues to recover from the emotional impact of Gutgsell’s death, which occurred mere hours before he was scheduled to celebrate Mass at St. John the Baptist Church.
In a harrowing account of the events, Gutgsell called 911 early in the morning to report an intruder in his home. When deputies arrived, they found him critically injured with severe stab wounds. Despite immediate medical attention, the priest succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to a hospital in Omaha.
Investigators uncovered a broken knife with a serrated blade in Gutgsell’s bedroom, though Williams was unarmed when apprehended. Authorities have confirmed that Williams, who had several felony convictions in other states, was working at a meatpacking plant in Sioux City, Iowa, at the time of the incident.
The Washington County Prosecutor’s Office has stated that they will not seek the death penalty in this case. This decision has left the community reeling, particularly in light of another unexplained homicide that occurred just four months earlier. Residents are left to question safety in their town, which is located eight miles (13 kilometers) north of Omaha along the Missouri River.
Williams’ attorney has yet to respond to requests for comment, leaving many unanswered questions about the motivations behind this tragic crime. As the sentencing date approaches, the community remains on edge, reflecting on the loss of a beloved figure who dedicated his life to serving others.
Next Steps: The court will reconvene on November 12 for sentencing, where the full impact of this case on the community will likely be addressed. Residents are encouraged to stay updated on developments as they unfold.
This disturbing incident highlights not only the violence that can occur in seemingly peaceful communities but also the collective grief that follows such tragic events. As news spreads, the calls for justice continue, resonating deeply within Fort Calhoun and beyond.