An Alabama pastor who was shot during a reported domestic dispute days before Christmas has died, as court records and law enforcement disclosures reveal a troubling history of prior domestic violence allegations involving the victim.
Da’Quarius Green, a pastor at Elba Zion Missionary Baptist Church, died on Saturday, Dec. 27, 2025, from injuries sustained in a shooting that occurred on Dec. 23, authorities confirmed. He was 31.
Dale County Sheriff Mason Bynum confirmed Green’s death, which the church also announced in a statement posted to its official 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 statement read. “We celebrate his homegoing while praying for his family and loved ones.”
Domestic Incident Under Investigation
Law enforcement officials have described the shooting as a domestic incident. According to multiple reports, including local station WTVY, Green was allegedly shot by a woman with whom he shared a child during a dispute at their home. The woman, also 31, has not been formally charged as of Dec. 27.
While authorities have not officially named the suspect, reports circulating on social media and local outlets identify the woman as Quintaria Massey, believed to be Green’s wife and the First Lady of Elba Zion Missionary Baptist Church. Officials have declined to publicly confirm her identity.
The lack of charges suggests investigators may be considering self-defense. In Alabama, fatal shootings involving potential self-defense claims are typically reviewed by the district attorney, who determines whether the case should be presented to a grand jury.
Prior Domestic Violence Allegations
Court records show that Green faced three misdemeanor domestic violence charges in 2025, all of which were ultimately dismissed after the alleged victim declined to testify.
In one protection order filing, a woman alleged that Green repeatedly assaulted her and struck her while she was pregnant. The records do not specify whether the alleged victim in those cases is the same woman involved in the December shooting.
The dismissals, according to legal experts, do not equate to a determination of innocence but reflect the difficulty of prosecuting domestic violence cases when victims choose not to participate in court proceedings.
Community Reaction
Despite the allegations detailed in court records, members of Elba Zion Missionary Baptist Church have continued to express grief and support following Green’s death.
“We are going to miss him. Loved him very much. Celebrating his homecoming and praying for his family and friends,” one congregant wrote on the church’s Facebook page.
The case has sparked broader discussion online about domestic violence, accountability within faith leadership, and the complexities surrounding self-defense claims in intimate partner violence situations.
Ongoing Review
As of now, the Dale County Sheriff’s Office has not announced any arrests or charges. The case remains under review by local prosecutors, who will determine whether further legal action is warranted.
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from speculation as investigators continue to assess evidence and witness statements surrounding the fatal incident.
