Rev. Sheldon Stoudemire, a 57-year-old African American man known for street ministry and anti-violence work, was shot to death on July 27, 2019, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was working as a night monitor at the Pleasant Valley Men’s Shelter on Brighton Road in the early morning when he refused entry to 19-year-old Gerald Adams. Adams fired through a glass door, striking Rev. Stoudemire in the chest; the shooting was captured on security cameras and Pittsburgh officers apprehended Adams shortly after.

Reports state Adams was charged with third-degree murder and gun charges. Rev. Stoudemire’s family described him as dedicated to reducing gun violence and helping vulnerable youth through street ministry and boxing coaching. His death was widely described as a significant loss for the community, and his family has advocated for gun safety initiatives since.

If anyone knew Rev. Stoudemire or has information about that night at the shelter, please share what you know.