A beloved Illinois pastor is dead and police say it happened at the hand of a man she fed and tried to help.
According to the Chicago Police Department, Marvin Wells, 59, is facing murder charges in the death of 53-year-old Marisol Berrios, identified as a Chicago resident and pastor at the Mexico-based ministry, Naciones Unidas Para Jesucristo.
The incident happened during a home invasion and robbery in Chicago Saturday. Following the incident, police discovered Wells had Berrios’ purse inside a stolen vehicle involved in a crash.
“When I saw his face, my heart was broken because this is someone she fed and even given money too. Marisol would say, ‘honey, I know they are addicts, they just need a chance, and they just need something to do,’” the victim’s friend, Leatisha Bailey, told Fox Chicago.
Police say Wells broke into Berrios’ home on Saturday, in West Garfield Park near Adams and Keeler. After allegedly beating her to death, Wells crashed the stolen car close to the Fullerton and Kostner area, ABC 7 reports.
Berrios, a church volunteer, spent her free time packing lunches for the less fortunate, which, among many, included the suspect, friends said.
“Is this what we get when you try so hard to help someone, you have to worry about your personal safety?” Bailey added.
“How do you so heinously hurt somebody that was so compassionate and giving and selfless? She would connect with ministries that would go all around the world and help people when disasters would happen.”
Police arrested Wells following the car crash. He remains behind bars without bail.
Meanwhile, a GoFundMe page has been set up to help family members with expenses, and to give Berrios “the farewell she deserves.”
“Marisol was not just a beloved family member but also a dedicated pastor who spent her life spreading love, hope, and compassion,” the page reads.
“She touched countless lives through her faith, inspiring sermons, and unwavering commitment to helping those in need. Her strong, soulful spirit resonated with everyone she met.”
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo: Marisol Berrios/Facebook]
