Maryland

“I Kill Demons”: Pennsylvania Man Charged in Maryland Pastor's Death

A Pennsylvania man charged with the death of a Maryland pastor told investigators that he believed the victim was possessed by demons, Montgomery County police say.

Roland Zinneh, 38, of Darby, Pennsylvania, was charged with first-degree murder in the death of Connery Dagadu, 57.

Emergency crews were called to the 19400 block of St. Johnsbury Lane in Germantown at 11:12 a.m. Wednesday for a report of an unconscious person. Police say Zinneh was combative when they arrived and prevented them from assisting Dagadu. Zinneh allegedly paced, jumped up and down and broke a basement window when they approached him.

According to police, he began to yell, "Demons! I kill demons!" once he was taken into custody.

Police said Dagadu visited the home Tuesday night after he was asked to "pray over" Zinneh to help with "voices." The homeowner told investigators she heard a commotion in the basement the next morning and went downstairs. The woman says Dagadu was sitting on the floor and appeared unresponsive.

Police say Zinneh believed Dagadu was possessed by demons, and that the two got into a physical fight that morning.

The Medical Examiner's Office said Dagadu's death was homicide by asphyxiation.

Zinneh is being held without bond at the Montgomery County Detention Center.

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