The son of a Brooklyn pastor has been arrested for allegedly stabbing his mother at least 15 times and killing her.
According to New York Daily News, Kenji Francis, 40, was arrested at the Upper Room Baptist Church in Brooklyn, New York. He is charged with the murder of his 61-year-old mother, Tracey Sydnor.
ChurchLeaders.com reports that Sydnor had been the executive pastor at the Upper Room Baptist Church after growing up in the church and then leading the church choir before eventually becoming the pastor.
According to police, Sydnor was stabbed at least 15 times around 2 p.m. last Saturday at the church. Sydnor’s brother found her and took her to the hospital, where she died.
Police also said that Francis admitted to killing his mother.
“What happened is I slit her up,” he allegedly told police.
Francis reportedly has no criminal record or history of mental health problems.
“Where Do I go from here?” Bishop Carl Henderson posted on his Facebook page after the murder. Henderson had appointed Sydnor to the church posting. “Lord, what am I supposed to do now? That was the wind beneath my wings in so many ways!”
Later, Henderson posted that he was grateful for all the prayers.
“I’ve literally got dozens and dozens of missed calls, texts, and inbox messages. Thank You! On behalf of myself and our church, as well as the Sydnor family! I have no words or conversation, please keep all affected in prayer!”
In another post, a friend of Sydnor wrote, “This one hurts different. I always say that I’ve had a few stages in my life. I don’t do the greatest with keeping contact with many people, but I’m always thankful for those who show love and keep up with me throughout the years. From the age of 14 until now, Pastor Tracey Sydnor has been a consistent presence in my life … A true Angel on earth has returned home.”
Photo courtesy: ©Getty Images/Douglas Sacha
Amanda Casanova is a writer living in Dallas, Texas. She has covered news for ChristianHeadlines.com since 2014. She has also contributed to The Houston Chronicle, U.S. News and World Report and IBelieve.com. She blogs at The Migraine Runner.
