MEMPHIS, Tenn. — CrimeStoppers of Memphis and Shelby County has posted an award of $12,000 for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the death of a well-known Memphis church worker.
Police are still looking for those responsible for the death of 74-year-old Steve Pearl, who died after being ambushed outside of his East Memphis home on Monday.
Memphis Police say Pearl was cleaning his Dodge Ram outside of his home off Watson early Saturday morning when a silver 2002 Suzuki XL7 drove by his home and made a U-turn.
According to police, two males got out of the vehicle, pointed a gun at Pearl, and attempted to rob him. One of the suspects struck Pearl in the head with the gun. When Pearl fell to the ground, the suspects went through his pockets.
Police say the silver Suzuki turned around and picked up the suspects before taking off on Watson toward Park Avenue. Pearl was taken to the hospital where he died two days later.
MPD released photos and a video of the suspect vehicle Wednesday night.
“We are certain someone has information that could help solve this murder,” said David Wayne Brown, CrimeStoppers executive director. “We urge anyone with information to come forward and call our anonymous tip line, 528-CASH (2274).”
$10,000 collected by Pearl’s family and friends alongside the $2,000 reward from CrimeStoppers makes the award total of $12,000.
Pearl worked at Christ Church Memphis for over 20 years as a fixture. His family described him as a selfless and caring man who went out of his way to help others.
“He cared for people in need and he loved his family,” Art Gettings, his son-in-law said. “He would help homeless people especially. If he saw somebody out begging for food he would meet them at a restaurant and buy them a meal and sit down and eat with them and listen to their stories.”
Pearl would do what he could daily to make a difference.
“He had a homeless man that he took in and cared for, for over 15 years,” Gettings said. “He made sure that he had food and clothes and a place to sleep every day.”
Gettings believes at least three people could have been involved in the attack.
“We already do and we would like to be even more able to have full forgiveness for them,” Gettings said. “And yes I do want them to have full justice but I would also like for them to know Jesus and for their life to be redeemed.”
If you know any additional information, call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.
