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Newport News pastor shot by stray bullet inside home

Posted at 8:09 PM, May 12, 2014
and last updated 2014-05-12 22:35:48-04

Newport News, Va. - A Newport News pastor was shot in the leg late Friday night when a stray bullet came through the wall of his house on Chestnut Ave. near 24th St.

Robert Turner, pastor of Garden of Prayer Outreach Ministries, was sitting in his upstairs study at the time, reflecting on his notes for that weekend's service.

He heard about ten gunshots around 11:20 p.m.

One of those bullets came through the wall just under his desk, hitting him in the leg.

The 77-year-old was taken to the hospital but was able to be released the next day and was back at the pulpit.

Turner says the violence won't slow him down; it's the reason he moved into the community last year, hoping to make a difference.

At the time, he was already pastor of Garden of Prayer just down the street on Chestnut Ave.

"I've been trying to work in this neighborhood for the last 5 years with the food bank, trying to make so they can see a different side of life.  It doesn't seem to be working, but I'm not giving up," said Turner.

This isn't the first time a religious leader has been the victim of violence in the area.  Back in January, a deacon with Triumph Christian Center on Chestnut Ave. was shot and killed 33rd St. and Marshall Ave. after leaving church service.

Police say they do not believe Turner was the intended target, they have not released any information about suspects.  If you know anything, call the Crime Line at 1-888-LOCK-U-UP.