While the quotes are available widely, it is always helpful to see the words, not just read them. This clearly was not an easy decision for Chuck Fletcher, and you can hear it in his voice and see it in his eyes. While Fletcher had to make a move here, the relationship between himself and Richards made this an extremely tough move for Fletcher.
You can listen for yourself, but Fletcher mentions several times that Richards is a "great coach" and that he just "wasn't the right fit" with this team. The best way to know the situation is the answer to the very first question. "Most days in professional sports are great days. THis isn't one of them."
No one wants to see anyone get fired, and anyone who has ever had to fire someone knows it is not an enjoyable experience. It is a necessary evil in any management position, and it good to see the human side of it was not lost on Chuck Fletcher.