Man indicted in fatal East Texas church shooting

TYLER — An Arlington man has been indicted for capital murder after allegedly shooting Starville Methodist Church Pastor Mark McWilliams in January of this year. According to our news partner KETK, Mytrez Deunte Woolen, 21, was on the run from Smith County deputies and Department of Public Safety Troopers on the night of Saturday, January 2. After hiding in the Starville church overnight, he was discovered by Pastor McWilliams just before service was set to begin. Police say the pastor pulled out a gun and tried to hold Woolen until police arrived. But Woolen fought for the gun and shot the pastor before fleeing the scene. A second person, Mike Seller, was hit by a bullet in the shoulder. His injuries were not life-threatening. McWilliams’ wife was injured when she fell and hurt her shoulder. Woolen was arrested later that day after stealing a car from the church. Woolen could receive the death penalty if convicted. His only other sentencing option under Texas law would be life in prison without parole. Woolen’s first court date has not been set.