DALLAS— In connection with the fatal gunshot of Denzel Branch, a 31-year-old youth pastor, during an altercation on March 31, a 30-year-old man from Texas has been indicted on a murder charge.
Joshua Andrews surrendered to the Dallas Police Department following the incident, which occurred in the 2500 block of 56th Street, a mere few blocks from New Generation Church, where Branch was the youth pastor.
Andrews and Branch were embroiled in a heated argument that escalated into violence, as indicated by the arrest affidavit. According to reports, the feud was precipitated by Andrews's intimate relationship with Branch's ex-wife, who divorced him in November 2023.
Andrews asserted that he overheard Branch making threats against him after attending a church service on Easter Sunday. Andrews allegedly drew his handgun and shot Branch after Branch allegedly struck him in the face, which exacerbated the situation.
After the initial shot, Andrews pursued Branch as he attempted to escape, continuing to fire until Branch collapsed in the street, according to witnesses.
Andrews subsequently admitted to the police that he had shot Branch multiple times, only ceasing when he observed Branch motionless on the ground.
Later that evening, Andrews returned to the police station to surrender after fleeing the site of the shooting.
Denzel Branch was transported to a nearby hospital; however, he passed away shortly thereafter due to his injuries. The New Generation Church celebrated a life service on April 6, in which he was memorialized as a dedicated youth pastor.
The church published a statement expressing their sorrow over the tragic incident, stating, "Our hearts are deeply saddened by the tragic incident that occurred down the street from our church..." We kindly request your ongoing prayers for the families and our church family as we navigate through these challenging times.
Andrews was indicted on a murder allegation by a grand jury on August 20, and he is currently being held at the Dallas County Jail.
The case has garnered substantial attention, particularly as a result of the personal connections between the parties.
The motivations behind the violent confrontation have been the subject of speculation due to Andrews's relationship with Branch's ex-wife.
The Dallas County District Attorney's office has underscored the significance of conducting a comprehensive investigation in anticipation of the forthcoming legal proceedings.
The investigation into this incident focuses on a variety of allegations as well as an extensive list of witnesses.
A spokesperson stated, "The Attorney’s office will dedicate the requisite time to guarantee that the investigation is conducted in a thorough and accurate manner. "
The community is currently grappling with the repercussions of this tragic incident, which has not only resulted in the loss of life but has also shattered the trust within the local religious community.
Many are advocating for a more thorough investigation of the circumstances that precipitated this violent confrontation as the legal process progresses, with the expectation of achieving justice for Denzel Branch and his family.
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