On March 31, 2024, 31-year-old youth minister Denzel Branch was fatally shot in Dallas, Texas, following an Easter Sunday service at New Generation Church, where he served as a youth pastor.
The incident occurred around 3:25 p.m. in the 2500 block of 56th Street, near the church.
According to police reports, Branch engaged in a verbal altercation with 30-year-old Joshua Andrews, also known as Joshua Bell, who is the son of the church's lead pastor, Eric Andrews.
The confrontation escalated when Branch allegedly punched Andrews through the open window of Andrews' vehicle.
In response, Andrews retrieved a handgun and fired multiple shots at Branch.
Branch attempted to flee but collapsed in the street; he was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigations revealed that Andrews had been involved in a romantic relationship with Branch's ex-wife since May 2023, prior to their divorce in November 2023.
This relationship reportedly caused ongoing tension between the two men.
After the shooting, Andrews fled the scene but later turned himself in to the Dallas Police Department.
He was arrested and charged with murder, with bail set at $500,000.
In August 2024, a grand jury indicted Andrews on the murder charge.
The tragic event has deeply affected the New Generation Church community, which expressed profound sadness and requested prayers for the families involved as they navigate this difficult time.
