GULFPORT, MS — A Saturday afternoon family Easter gathering turned tragic when gunfire erupted at Jack and Florence Goldin Park, leaving one man dead and at least two others injured in what authorities describe as a “domestic dispute gone wrong.”
The shooting occurred around 2:05 p.m. near the conclusion of a church-sponsored Easter egg hunt organized by Empowerment Ministries Christian Center. Dozens of families, including young children, were gathered at the park when the violence unfolded.
According to investigators, one victim was airlifted to receive treatment for life-threatening injuries. Another injured individual was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. Officials have not yet released their identities or conditions.
Tragically, one of the victims was identified by church members as Eddie Shed, a deacon and the head of the church’s security team. Witnesses say Shed was shot and killed while bravely attempting to intervene during the dispute to protect others—particularly the children present at the event.
“He died a hero doing what he does best—and that’s protecting, loving, and looking out for everyone,” said Alexis Weathersby, a fellow church member. “He was a wonderful man who would do anything for anyone.”
“He was the guy you could always count on. When the church doors opened or closed, he was there,” added church member Taylor Sanders. “We are just heartbroken.”
Three individuals have been detained in connection with the shooting, and investigators believe one of the suspects may have sustained a gunshot wound during the incident.
The Gulfport Police Department is continuing its investigation and has not yet confirmed the identities of the other individuals involved or released information about potential charges.
Community members have expressed shock and sorrow that such violence would unfold during a peaceful church event meant to bring families together.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or has relevant information to come forward to assist in the investigation.