Tammy McCollum, a 58-year-old pastor at The Well Worship Center in Statesville, was found shot inside her northwest Charlotte home on April 6. Her husband, 61-year-old Eddie McCollum, was arrested at the scene and is charged in connection with her death, officials say.
What police say
According to a news release from the Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department, officers were dispatched just after 2 a.m. to an "assault with a deadly weapon" call in the 5700 block of Cardington Court. They found an adult woman who was later pronounced dead.
Detectives identified 61-year-old Eddie McCollum as a suspect, took him into custody at the home, interviewed him, and then transferred him to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office, the department said. The CMPD Homicide Unit is leading the investigation, and detectives say they are still collecting evidence.
911 call captures frantic confession
Portions of the 911 call have been made public. A transcript reproduced by AOL includes the caller telling dispatchers, "Oh my God, I just shot my wife," and later, "I can't help her, she's dead," while repeatedly pleading, "Lord help me."
In the published excerpts, the caller describes an argument before the shooting and at first refuses to step outside when officers instruct him to do so. Reporters who reviewed the recording say it captures a chaotic and emotional scene as medics and detectives move toward the home.
School and community stunned
Court records and school communications show that Eddie McCollum worked as a teaching assistant in the exceptional children program at Southwest Middle School. Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Schools confirmed to WBTV that he has been suspended with pay.
WBTV also reported that during his first court appearance, a judge appointed a public defender and set his bond at $1 million secured.
Family remembers pastor's ministry
Friends and relatives say the killing has left them searching for answers. Tammy McCollum’s daughter, Davilyn, told WSOC the family is “bewildered” and that her parents had not shown obvious signs of trouble in their relationship.
Local reporting has also noted that Tammy delivered an Easter Sunday sermon just hours before the shooting. The Well Worship Center has asked for prayers and privacy as the congregation and family prepare memorial arrangements.
Legal status
Prosecutors have charged Eddie McCollum with first‑degree murder. How the case moves forward will be decided in upcoming court filings and hearings.
At his initial hearing, a judge appointed a public defender and ordered a $1 million secured bond, according to WBTV. Detectives say the investigation is still active.
How to help or report tips
Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the CMPD Homicide Unit. The department’s news release lists 704‑432‑8477 (TIPS) as the number to call, according to the Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Police Department.
If you or someone you know needs help with domestic violence or sexual assault, the Greater Charlotte Hope Line can be reached at 980‑771‑4673, per Safe Alliance.
