Pastor Dr. Ronald K. Mouton Sr. of East Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, was shot and killed on Friday afternoon (June 24) in what police are characterizing as a possible road rage incident.
What led up to the shooting is unclear, but surveillance footage revealed that just prior to Mouton crashing his car, a man was running back and forth in the street and on the sidewalk.
Community members described Mouton, who was 58, as “a man of love and service,” “a hard worker,” and “a staple” in the Houston area community. Mouton had served as pastor of East Bethel Missionary Baptist Church for over 30 years.
“Pastor Mouton was a loving father, husband, and friend. A wonderful pastor, and a true man of God that lived and practiced what he preached,” said Pastor Lionel Flanagan of East Houston Trinity Walk of Faith Ministry. Flanagan went on to say that Mouton was a “true friend.”
RELATED: Former Youth Pastor Dies While Being Restrained by Police During Domestic Disturbance Call
“He allowed me to do things that he didn’t do for no other. He gave me a chance to do what I’m doing now, and I thank God for him,” Flanagan said.
On Saturday, East Bethel Missionary Baptist Church released a statement to Facebook on behalf of the Mouton family, which said, “Dr. Mouton was known and loved by many. If you knew him, you would know him to be a gracious servant, a leader, and a friend. As we begin to cope with the reality of his passing, we ask that you would respect our family’s privacy during this time.”
Mouton leaves behind his wife of nearly 40 years, four children, and 10 grandchildren.
Police said the suspect was believed to be driving a black sedan, according to Click 2 Houston. United States Congressional Representative Sheila Jackson Lee and Crime Stoppers of Houston are offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case.
Lee, who knew Mouton personally, said of him, “This was just an innocent man traveling on a road near his church where he worked all the time. He loves ministry. He was just doing the work of a pastor.”
RELATED: Joel Osteen’s Church Plumber Receives $20,000 Reward
Anyone with information related to the case is being asked to contact the Houston Police Department.
