Gary Michael Moran, 54, who had only been out of jail for six weeks, has been arrested following the shooting of Fr Kenneth Walker, FSSP, and the beating of Fr Joseph Terra.

Police say Fr Terra went to investigate noises in a yard, and was hit with an iron rod.

Fr Terra went to retrieve his .357 calibre gun, but couldn't fire it because of an injured finger.

The gun was taken by Moran, who shot Fr Walker who had came out of his room to see what was happening.

Fr Walker, 28, later died of his wounds.

Moran has a history of violence and drug abuse.

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Fr Kenneth Walker, 29, died of gunshot wounds on June 11. He was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

Another priest, Fr Joseph Terra, 56, was badly beaten in the attack in the Mater Misericordiae (Mother of Mercy) Mission rectory.

He was subsequently hospitalised with what police described as severe injuries.

Both priests are members of the Priestly Fraternity of St Peter, which is dedicated to saying Mass in the extraordinary form, in Latin.

According to Phoenix diocese, Fr Terra was able to absolve Fr Walker of his sins before he died, and was able to give him the final sacrament.

The older priest was also able to call police.

The attack and killing has stunned the church and community in Phoenix.

Phoenix diocese released a statement asking for prayers for both priests, the religious community, their families and parish.

Parishioners described the two priests as always willing to help anyone in need and with hearts to serve the poor.

Phoenix Police Chief Daniel Garcia said investigators had found "strong physical evidence".

"The Phoenix Police Department will exhaust our resources in bringing to justice the individuals who committed this crime," Chief Garcia said.

When police arrived at the scene, they found a garage door open and a car missing. The vehicle was later found several blocks away.

The incident was initially reported as a burglary, but police said it was too early to determine the motive.

The mayor of Phoenix mayor, Greg Stanton, said the bloodshed was a tragedy that struck to the core.

"Every American should feel safe in a house of worship," Mr Stanton said.

"And that basic value was violated last night in an unspeakable way."

Authorities have released a sketch of a suspect, said to be a white male in his forties.

Sources:

• National Catholic Reporter
• LA Times
• Reuters
• NBC News
• BBC
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