Handyman opens fire at Korean retreat

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Monterey Co. Herald:

Handyman opens fire at Korean retreat

TEMECULA — Ever since John Chong moved to a remote Korean Catholic retreat in the hills of Southern California, the retired welder worked tirelessly to bring perfection to the rambling campground of bungalows where Korean-Americans come to worship in rural isolation.

But on Tuesday, the 69-year-old handyman known affectionately as “Uncle” by other residents allegedly shattered the peace he had helped to build by shooting another resident to death, wounding her husband and trying to shoot another couple who instead disarmed him in a bloody struggle.

Chong was hospitalized and unconscious Wednesday with severe facial trauma, said Riverside County sheriff’s Sgt. Michael Lujan.
Chong’s friend, Chuck Owens, said Chong worked seven days a week doing repairs and handyman jobs at the retreat — from building brick walls to using a backhoe — despite suffering from a serious medical illness several years ago.
He and another neighbor said they believed there was a dispute between Chong and at least one of the couples over work responsibilities.

“He’s a hard worker and without him, this place is going to be in trouble,” said Owens, who rents space in the campground. “He gave all his life to God and donated all his time and never charged anyone.”

What a horrible thing during Holy Week.
It sounds like this man just snapped for whatever reason. Prayers for him and his victims.