Pastor who was shot to death before Christmas faced numerous domestic violence charges, records show

DALE COUNTY, Ala. (WTVY/Gray News) — A pastor in Alabama was shot and killed days before Christmas in what authorities described as a “domestic incident.”

Da’Quarius Green of Elba Zion Missionary Baptist Church died Saturday after being shot Tuesday, the day before Christmas Eve.

Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum confirmed the death, as did the church’s Facebook page.

“With heavy hearts yet unwavering faith, we share that our beloved Pastor Da’Quarius Green has transitioned from this earthly life into eternal rest,” the church wrote.

The woman accused of shooting Green, 31, has not been publicly identified or charged.

Court records show Green faced three misdemeanor counts of domestic violence last year, though all were dismissed after the alleged victim refused to testify. In a protection order filing, a woman alleged Green, with whom she has children, repeatedly struck her, once when she was pregnant.

Court records do not indicate if the victim was the same in all cases or if that woman is the person who shot Green.

The alleged shooter has not been charged, indicating that authorities believe the shooting may have been justified. Cases involving a possible self-defense claim are typically referred to the district attorney, who decides whether to present evidence to a grand jury.

Despite the abuse allegations faced by their pastor, Elba Zion Missionary Baptist Church members posted messages of support and remembrance on the church’s Facebook page.

“We are going to miss him. Loved him very much. Celebrating his homecoming and praying for his family and friends,” one post read.