DETROIT LAKES, Minn. – The wife of a Minnesota missionary who was killed in Angola has been arrested in connection with his death, according to the Lakes Area Vineyard Church in Detroit Lakes.
Beau Shroyer died Friday in a “violent act while serving Jesus,” according to a statement from the church.
He left behind his wife and five children, who were still in Angola on Tuesday. The family had moved there three years ago.
A State Department representative confirmed the death of a U.S. citizen and said he was aware of reports of a U.S. citizen being detained in Angola. However, they did not share any other information.
On Friday morning, Lakes Area Vineyard Church lead pastor Troy Easton released an updated statement saying Beau Shroyer’s wife, Jackie Shroyer, had been taken into custody in connection with his death.
“I am so sorry and simply have no words to express my disbelief and sadness at this news,” Easton wrote.
He added that the couple’s five children are being “well cared for.”
Beau Shroyer and his wife moved to Angola to serve as long-term missionaries through the SIM organization. In a statement, SIM said it was “heartbroken” to hear of Beau Shroyer’s death and “shocked and devastated” to learn of Jackie Shroyer’s arrest.
“SIM is grateful to Angolan law enforcement officials for their dedication in investigating this case,” the organization said. “The SIM USA leadership team is working closely with the SIM team in Angola and with the Shroyers’ home church, Lakes Area Vineyard Church in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, to care for the Shroyers’ five children and anyone else affected by this tragedy has struck.”
WCCO has not yet confirmed the arrest with law enforcement sources and has contacted the State Department for more information.
Jason Rantala is investigating and will provide updates later today.
WCCO personnel
