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Pastor shot dead in Bowie as longtime acquaintance charged

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September 10, 2025
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Pastor and Army veteran shot dead in Bowie as suspect charged with murder

Lanham, MD – A 59-year-old pastor and U.S. Army veteran was shot and killed Sunday night in a Prince George’s County neighborhood, and a 58-year-old man is now facing a second-degree murder charge in connection with the fatal dispute.

Benjamin Francis was killed following an argument with Herbert Mason on Rockport Lane in Bowie. According to investigators, the two men knew each other, and the conflict escalated into gunfire. When officers arrived at the scene, they found Francis suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Prince George’s County Police announced on Tuesday that Mason had been arrested and formally charged with second-degree murder. Authorities have not provided information on what sparked the argument or if a weapon was recovered.

Francis was a well-known figure in the Lanham community. He served as pastor at Mount Calvary Baptist Church and was a decorated U.S. Army veteran. Family members said he was a father, grandfather, and spiritual leader who was deeply committed to his community.

The investigation is ongoing, and police have not released further details regarding Mason’s arrest or upcoming court appearances.

Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Prince George’s County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-8477.

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Key Points

  • 59-year-old Benjamin Francis shot and killed Sunday night in Bowie, Maryland
  • 58-year-old Herbert Mason arrested and charged with second-degree murder
  • Victim was a pastor, Army veteran, father, and grandfather
Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News