In a recent incident in Southwest Baltimore, police have determined that a shooting involving a church pastor was justified. The event took place on May 26th, 2024, at the vacant and under-construction Praise Cathedral church located on South Mount Street.
The church pastor received an alert from ADT, indicating a power outage at the church. Concerned, he went to investigate and encountered 59-year-old Norris Palmore near the rear cellar door of the building.
According to the pastor, Palmore advanced toward him with a pair of bolt cutters, prompting the pastor to shoot in self-defense.
The firearm used in the shooting was legally purchased and registered to the pastor. At the scene, police found freshly cut copper wiring, supporting the pastor’s account of a burglary in progress. While being treated at the hospital, Palmore initially denied breaking in, claiming the church door was already open. However, detectives noted that this admission still suggested unauthorized entry.
Palmore, who has a criminal history dating back to 1995 with convictions for drugs, burglary, and sex offenses, survived the shooting and now faces multiple charges. His trial is scheduled for July 30.
Local residents expressed surprise at the incident, noting that the church had not been in active use for some time. Mykel Caldwell, a neighbor, remarked on the strangeness of someone targeting the long-vacant church.
Authorities are continuing their investigation and have requested anyone with additional information to contact them.
This incident highlights the importance of self-defense rights and responsible firearm ownership, demonstrating that legally armed citizens can effectively protect themselves and their property from criminal activities, even in the most anti-gun cities and states.
