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	Diocese of Austin Closes Euresti Inquiry KVUE June 10, 2009 http://www.txcn.com/sharedcontent/dws/txcn/austin/stories/061009kvue_diocese-cb.68d056c1.html The Diocese of Austin Wednesday confirmed that it has closed its investigation into the alleged sexual relationship between a priest that was killed in Mexico and his confessed killer, but diocese officials say they were unable to verify the killer's allegations. Manuel Martin Torres-Saldaña told investigators in Mexico that he had been romantically involved with Father Jesse Euresti, a priest at Cristo Rey Catholic Church in East Austin, and lived at the priest's retirement home in Nuevo Laredo. Torres-Saldaña told investigators he killed Euresti with a knife and machete during an argument at the home in March. Euresti's body was later found dumped along a rural highway. Torres-Saldaña was sentenced to 37 years in prison, the maximum allowed in Mexico. Bishop Gregory Aymond stated in a release to KVUE News: "Several weeks ago, in response to questions from reporters, I stated that I would look into a statement by Manuel Martin Torres-Saldaña. Torres-Saldaña confessed to killing Father Jesse Euresti in Nuevo Laredo at the end of March. He tended to Father Euresti's home in Nuevo Laredo. Immediately after his arrest and in his confession, Torres-Saldaña alleged that he and Father Euresti had an inappropriate relationship. Those closest to Father Euresti and those who have known him for many decades adamantly denied the allegation of an inappropriate relationship. The inquiry is now complete. I am unable to verify the truth of Torres-Saldaña's statement. Therefore, it is appropriate that we remember in gratitude Father Euresti's 44 years of priestly ministry. Please join me in continuing to pray for Father Euresti's family and friends. This is a time of grief, forgiveness and healing. May we all experience God's loving mercy."
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