13-04-2025
Pastor honors Eddie Shed, killed while saving others at South MS church event
Eddie Shed, a security guard and deacon at Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, a Gulfport church, died in a shooting Saturday when he tried to intervene in a domestic violence dispute that turned physical at a church event, authorities confirmed Saturday. Police have taken three people into custody and additional details have not been released.
The church made the following statement:
It is with heavy hearts that we, the Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, address the tragic events that unfolded during our Family Easter Egg Hunt at Prudie Circle earlier today.
Our beloved Deacon Eddie Shed was taken from us in a senseless act of gun violence. Deacon Shed epitomized the virtues of a hero, 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.
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.
We want to reassure everyone that this tragic act was not carried out by a member of Empowerment Ministries Christian Center. What began as a beautiful day filled with laughter and joy was overshadowed by a criminal act and we are all heartbroken by this senseless violence.
In this time of sorrow, we remain steadfast in our mission to be a light in the midst of darkness. Our faith gives us hope and strength, and we draw comfort from the assurance that we will one day be reunited with Deacon Shed. We continue to lift in prayer those affected by this tragedy and stand together as a community, united in love and resilience.
Let us hold each other close, support one another, and continue to be beacons of hope and love in our world.
In faith and solidarity,
Dr. Gregg S. Magee, Sr
Senior Pastor
Empowerment Ministries Christian Center