It's been a week since Angeline Fimognari was gunned down in the parking lot of St. Dominic's Church in Youngstown. Her suspected killer is behind bars, and the church she loved so much is rejoicing, not only for justice, but for Angeline.
The parking lot at St. Dominic's was full on Sunday morning, just one week after the 80-year-old parishioner was robbed and killed in the same parking lot.
Friday, police arrested 18-year-old Jamar "Mook" Houser for the murder. But this wasn't Houser's first run-in with police. Court records show he was out of jail on bond for a firearms violation.
"We're very pleased that the police have caught someone, and we're very grateful to the police for all they have done," said the Rev. Gregory Maturi, pastor and prior at St. Dominic's Church.
Parishioners said they are happy police have made an arrest, but they said they wouldn't let such a heinous act stop them from going back to the church.
"Naturally, we're very happy that the suspect was apprehended, but really we've always felt safe coming here," said Beverly Muresan.
Parishioner Aurel Muresan said all of his children have attended St. Dominic's, and they've always felt safe there, and they're still not afraid to go.
"I don't think it makes any difference to the way I feel," said Mary Jean Schuler. "I mean, I'm grateful to have the security cameras, grateful to have the security guards, but I feel protected by the Lord. I always have."
Maturi said he didn't notice a drop in church attendance after the murder. In fact, he said he noticed maybe an even larger attendance, which he attributes to the perseverance of the church members.
"They love St. Dominic's and they are resolute in continuing to come to worship here and support St. Dominic's," said Maturi.
Houser's arraignment is scheduled for Monday morning, and in the meantime, Maturi wants the community to continue to pray for the family of Fimognari and for the city of Youngstown.
"We're part of Youngstown, and while this happened here at St. Dominic's, this is something that the whole city has to deal with," said Father Maturi.
