In the summer of 2019, a tragedy struck the family of Coppin State University's head baseball coach, Sherman Reed. His son, Sherman Reed Jr., a 31-year-old male, was fatally shot in his home in the Violetville neighborhood of Southwest Baltimore. The incident occurred on a Thursday evening in August. Police responded to a call and discovered Reed Jr. inside his residence on the 3800 block of West Patapsco Avenue, where he had sustained a gunshot wound to the head.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Sherman Reed Jr. was remembered by his family as a funny and life-loving individual who enjoyed connecting with his friends. He was also a father to an 8-year-old son, whom he loved dearly and for whom he wanted the best. In the wake of his death, his family, who described themselves as typically private, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they received from the community. A GoFundMe page was established in his honor to support his young son.
The death of Sherman Reed Jr. was one of two homicides that occurred in Baltimore on that day, contributing to the city's ongoing struggle with gun violence. His father, while expressing his love for the city, also spoke out about the pervasive issue of violence and the quickness with which disputes escalate to the use of firearms. As of the reports available, no arrests had been made in connection with the shooting, and the investigation into his death was ongoing. The family held a viewing and funeral services for Sherman Reed Jr. in the days following his death, mourning the loss of a son, father, and friend.
