A Mississippi church deacon is being remembered as a “hero” after he was fatally shot protecting members of his congregation from gunfire at an Easter egg hunt last weekend.
Eddie Shed, of the Empowerment Ministries Christian Center (EMCC) in the city of Gulfport, was killed when 24-year-old Tryan Deion Gable allegedly opened fire during a church-sponsored family Easter egg hunt at the Goldin Sports Complex on Saturday (April 12).
Gable has since been charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault in connection with the shooting, which according to People “began as a child custody dispute.”
Investigators believe the “senseless act of gun violence” followed an alleged dispute between Gabler and the mother of his child, WLOX reported.
Shed, 39, died protecting the victim of the domestic dispute and a church member who had attempted to de-escalate the custody dispute.
“He died a hero doing what he does best, and that’s protecting and that’s loving and that’s looking out for everyone,” church member Alexis Weathersby told WLOX.
“He was just a wonderful man who was willing to do any and everything for anyone.”
Deacon Shed was declared dead at the scene, and another victim, who has yet to be identified, was airlifted to an out-of-state hospital.
Gable was also shot during the incident and was taken to the hospital.
Per authorities, the 24-year-old was also denied bond on his murder charge, while Justice Court Judge Nick Patano set his bond on the aggravated assault offense at $250,000.
In his statement following the shooting, pastor Gregg Magee of the EMCC wrote that Shed “epitomized the virtues of a hero” after “displaying selfless courage and bravery that ultimately saved others from harm.”
“He paid the ultimate price for his valor, and we are deeply saddened by this loss,” the pastor wrote.
“Deacon Shed was a pillar of strength within our community and a beacon of light and hope. His unwavering faith, kindness and dedication to serving others have left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”
“We extend our heartfelt prayers and condolences to Doris, Jaylen, Kaleb, KaMya, Neloise, Derrick and his family and friends who grieve this profound loss,” Magee added.
Taylor Sanders, another church member, added that the deacon “was that guy you could always have a laugh with and always count on to be” at the church.
“When the doors opened and when the doors shut, he was just that guy, and we’re just distraught at this moment,” he added.
The church is currently accepting donations to assist with funeral and medical expenses.
Rest In Peace, Deacon Shed!
