On March 13, 2024, 38-year-old Michael Edward Pride Jr. was fatally shot outside a 7-Eleven store located at the intersection of Harris Road and Ellenwood Road near the Concord-Huntersville line in North Carolina. Pride, a resident of Huntersville, was known for his compassionate nature and dedication to community service, notably as the founder of ProjectEx, a nonprofit organization committed to aiding the homeless.
The tragic incident unfolded when Pride reportedly spent several hours in the store's restroom. Upon being asked to leave, an argument ensued between him and a store employee, 23-year-old Salverio Antonio Campagna. The confrontation escalated, culminating in Campagna fatally shooting Pride outside the store. Witnesses recounted hearing multiple gunshots during the altercation.
Authorities responded promptly to the scene, where Pride was pronounced dead from his injuries. Campagna was arrested later that day and charged with murder. He is currently being held without bond at the Cabarrus County Jail.
Pride's untimely death has left a profound void in the community. He is survived by his wife, Kacie Allen-Pride, and their four children. In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign titled "Supporting the Legacy of Michael Pride Jr." was established to assist his family and continue his mission of compassion and service.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing. Community members and local authorities are seeking to understand the events that led to this senseless act of violence, as they mourn the loss of a dedicated father, husband, and community leader.
