Priest invades radio station and assaults 83-year-old host during live broadcast in Bambuí-MG

Priest Edson Augusto Teixeira, 55, invaded the Canastra FM Radio studio and physically assaulted 83-year-old host Jésus de Carvalho Chaves during the live program “Domingão do Jesão.” The incident occurred on Sunday morning (19) in Bambuí, in the Central-West Region of Minas Gerais. The motivation stemmed from the broadcaster’s criticism of the maintenance of the Last Supper mural at the Sant’Ana Parish Church, led by the priest. The Military Police filed a report after the victim sought out the local station.

The broadcast audio captured the exact moment of the priest’s unauthorized entry into the studio. Jésus Chaves, upon noticing the approach, announced: “The priest is arriving, let’s give him the right to reply.” The priest immediately retorted, calling the host a “lying old man who never helped the church.” This was followed by a push and a punch, causing minor injuries to the victim.

The local radio, based in Bambuí, has operated for years as a community communication outlet. The “Domingão do Jesão” program attracts regional listeners with discussions on local issues, including religious topics.

• Audio recording preserved by the station for investigation purposes;
• Witnesses in the studio confirmed the sequence of events;
• Listeners reported hearing the insults and commotion in real-time.

Dispute over church heritage

The Last Supper mural, located at the altar of the Sant’Ana Parish Church, is a historical asset for the Bambuí community. Jésus Chaves publicly questioned the lack of restoration, alleging neglect in its preservation. Priest Edson Augusto Teixeira, recently transferred from Pains to the parish, saw the remarks as a direct affront to his management.

Ecclesiastical authorities have been monitoring the case since the initial report. The Diocese of Luz, overseeing the region’s parishes, began an internal investigation into the priest’s conduct. Disciplinary measures may be applied depending on the findings.

Radio station’s response and victim support

Canastra FM Radio issued an official statement condemning the invasion. The management emphasized its commitment to freedom of expression and the right to reply in its programs. Full support was offered to Jésus Chaves, who is temporarily off-air for recovery.

Station employees described the episode as unprecedented in its history. The radio operates on 89.1 FM and serves about 20,000 residents in its coverage area. Studio security measures were strengthened following the incident.

Local listeners expressed solidarity on social media. Many praised the host’s professional demeanor during the confrontation. The community is now discussing the boundaries between opinion and confrontation in live broadcasts.

History of tensions in the parish

Edson Augusto Teixeira took over the Sant’Ana Parish a few months ago, after serving in Pains. Reports indicate prior disagreements with Jésus Chaves over ecclesiastical matters. The host, with over 50 years of radio experience, often addresses community issues, including religious heritage.

The Sant’Ana Parish Church, dating back to the 19th century, houses valuable artifacts. Past maintenance efforts cost parish donations totaling R$50,000 in recent years. Criticism of the current pace has sparked debates among parishioners.

Police are investigating possible trespassing in the studio. The priest has not yet made a public statement. The victim underwent a medical examination, confirming superficial injuries.

Diocese of Luz’s stance

The Diocese of Luz issued an official statement on Sunday afternoon. The entity stated it is closely monitoring the episode and has initiated an inquiry. Inappropriate conduct will result in appropriate measures under internal regulations.

The local bishop emphasized the importance of peace in religious communities. Bambuí is part of the diocese’s jurisdiction, which covers 50 parishes in Minas Gerais. Similar cases are rare but treated with priority.

Approximately 500 people attend weekly masses at Sant’Ana Parish. The incident did not affect the immediate liturgical schedule. Ecclesiastical representatives met with the victim to mediate dialogue.

Ongoing police procedures

The Bambuí Military Police cordoned off the studio shortly after the complaint. Officers recorded witness statements and collected the audio as evidence. The case has been forwarded to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which will evaluate charges of bodily harm and defamation.

Jésus Chaves, a longtime Bambuí resident, is avoiding medical details for now. The host plans to return to the air after medical clearance. The radio adjusted its schedule to cover the gap.

Investigators are seeking footage from external cameras at the station. The case may result in fines or a restraining order if intent to intimidate is proven.

Context of community radio in Minas

Canastra FM Radio began operations in 1995, focusing on local news. Programs like Jésus Chaves’ discuss politics, culture, and religion for 20 years. The station employs 15 professionals and relies on regional advertisements.

Bambuí, with 12,000 residents, has a tradition in broadcasting. Other stations compete, but Canastra stands out for its interactivity. Listeners send messages via phone during broadcasts.

The episode gained attention in Minas Gerais news outlets. Discussions about ethics in community journalism emerged. Experts recommend conflict mediation training.

• Frequency: 89.1 FM, 50 km reach;
• Daily programs: 12 hours of live content;
• Target audience: local farmers and merchants.