A violent series of incidents occurred on Sunday, January 28, 2024, in Palm Bay, Florida, resulting in four fatalities, including a retired Catholic priest, his sister, and the suspect’s grandfather. The incident also led to two Palm Bay Police officers sustaining injuries.
The Palm Bay Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance report at a residence on Forgal Avenue NE around 2 p.m. The suspect, 24-year-old Brandon Kapas, was allegedly creating a disturbance during a family birthday celebration. Kapas’ uncle, who initiated the 911 call, suggested Kapas could be armed.
Upon the arrival of the officers, Kapas headed towards his vehicle, seemingly attempting to escape. Despite police instructions, he did not comply. An officer attempted to subdue Kapas with a Taser, but it seemed to have no effect on him.
A dispute ensued, leading to an exchange of gunfire between at least one officer and Kapas. In the ensuing gunfight, two police officers were injured. Kapas was able to escape initially but was later shot and killed by police.
According to Police Chief Mariano Augello, officers pursued Kapas after he fled the scene. The chase ended with Kapas sustaining fatal injuries. At the disturbance location, police discovered Kapas’ 78-year-old grandfather, dead from a gunshot wound, and a significant number of weapons in Kapas’ vehicle.
Investigators tracked the vehicle registration to a separate address, leading them to the home of Father Robert “Bob” Hoeffner, a retired priest of the St. Joseph Catholic Community, and his 69-year-old sister, Sally Hoeffner. Both were found dead, and police surmise they were killed before the disturbance at Kapas’ residence.
The relationship between Kapas and the Hoeffners is still under investigation. Father Hoeffner is fondly remembered for his five decades of dedicated service to the priesthood. Chrissy Kruppenbach, Minister to the Sick at St. Joseph’s Church, commented on Father Hoeffner’s unwavering commitment to his community, even in retirement.
Residents expressed shock and fear over the incident. One even considered moving due to the disruption caused by the gunfire and subsequent police activity. Charles Rigsby, the Hoeffners’ neighbor, shared his interactions with the siblings, depicting them as engaged and kind residents of the neighborhood.
The Diocese of Orlando issued a statement mourning the loss, offering condolences to the victims’ families, and extending prayers for the injured officers. They also expressed gratitude to public servants for their role in ensuring community safety.
In a Monday press conference, Police Chief Augello underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, “Our officers’ actions… prevented something even more tragic and devastating from happening.” He further clarified that both injured officers, Stephen Ball and Nicholas Franze, suffered non-life-threatening injuries, with one already discharged and the other recuperating from successful surgery.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has assumed charge of the investigation due to the nature of the case. The ongoing investigation includes a review of Brandon Kapas’ criminal history, which includes charges of DUI and resisting arrest, to determine the motive behind the shootings.
