On July 13, 2023, 24-year-old Peter "Eli" Elijah Parker was fatally shot in a residence on Pharm Hills Road in Mabank, Texas. Upon arrival, Mabank Police officers found Parker with a gunshot wound to the head. Despite immediate life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after being transported to UT Health in Gun Barrel City.
Peter Parker, known as Eli, was a former firefighter with the South Van Zandt Fire Department.
He graduated from Martin’s Mill High School in 2017 and was remembered for his passion for basketball, firefighting, and music. His infectious smile and compassionate nature left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
During the investigation, authorities interviewed three males present at the scene. A juvenile male was taken into custody and charged with manslaughter, a second-degree felony. He was subsequently booked into the Van Zandt County Juvenile Detention Center.
Eli's funeral services were held on July 20, 2023, at The Bridge Fellowship Church in Martin’s Mill, Texas. The family requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his honor to the South Van Zandt Volunteer Fire Department, reflecting his dedication to serving the community.
