Crime & Safety

Body Found In Texas ID'd As Retired Falmouth Priest

Authorities have charged a 27-year-old man with William Costello's murder.

FALMOUTH, MA – Authorities have identified a body found near a cemetery in Santa Monica, TX as that of retired Falmouth priest William Costello. The 71-year-old was reported missing from a condominium complex on South Padre Island, TX Aug. 1. His body was found about 60 miles away on Aug. 17.

Juan Carlos Baez Escobedo, 27, is being held on $2 million bond and has been charged with murder in connection with the remains.

Costello served as pastor of St. Anthony's Parish from 1999-2011 before retiring and moving to Texas about three or four years ago, Diocese of Fall River spokesman John Kearns told southcoasttoday. Kearns said the circumstances surrounding the body are "very disturbing" and the parish is waiting for more information.

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Police said Costello was likely with his dog when he went missing from a South Padre Island condominium complex Aug. 1.

Image via South Padre Island Police Department

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