La. man arrested after 2 people found 'burned beyond recognition' as pastor, assistant remain missing

COVINGTON, La. (TCD) -- A 49-year-old man was arrested on several counts, including murder, after two people were found dead Monday morning.

According to the Covington Police Department, on Nov. 28 at approximately 7 a.m., officers went to the 500 block of East Gibson Street for a report of an apparent double homicide. The two victims were reportedly "burned beyond recognition."

Hours later, the Covington Police Department announced they identified Antonio Tyson as a suspect and arrested him on two counts of first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree kidnapping, two counts of obstruction of justice, one count of resisting an officer, and one count of illegal possession of stolen things.

An autopsy was reportedly scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 29. Covington Police also said they were holding a press conference Tuesday morning but then postponed it to a later date.

Police did not identify the victims, though there were reports that a retired priest, Otis Young, and his longtime assistant, Ruth Prats, are missing, according to WGNO-TV.

Young and Prats were reportedly part of the clerical team at St. Peter Parish Catholic Church, according to WWL-TV. Young had reportedly retired from his post in July after 10 years because of health issues. He reportedly previously suffered a stroke and underwent heart surgery.

In a statement on the its site's homepage, St. Peter Parish Catholic Church said Tyson "has no affiliation" with the church.

Following the news of the homicide investigation, the church wrote they are aware of "speculation about the identity of the victims, but until this is confirmed by the coroner’s office, we cannot speculate about their identities."

MORE:

• Covington Police Investigating Apparent Double Homicide - Covington Police Department
• Antonio Donde Tyson Arrest - Covington Police Department
• Covington priest, assistant missing as police investigate two people found 'burned beyond recognition' - WGNO
• Arrest made in Covington double killing; pastor and associate still listed as missing - WWL