Local pastor remembers South Bend teen killed in apparent home invasion

In the wake of a 13-year-old's shooting death, a local pastor is sharing memories of Tyshawn Taylor.

"Hearing that there’s been a shooting, hearing that someone lost their life in our city, right here in Michiana, it breaks your heart," said Dr. Mark Beeson, pastor of Granger Community Church.

South Bend Community Schools confirmed Taylor was in the eighth grade at Edison Intermediate. Late Tuesday night, police say Taylor was

during an apparent home invasion at Hickory Village Apartments in Mishawaka.

In his younger years, Taylor attended summer camps at Beeson's church and also participated in Son City Kids ministry -- an after-school program also run by Granger Community Church.

"In addition to his family and friends, he found love and hope here at Granger Community Church, and he was a delight to be around," Beeson testified of Taylor.

He remembered the close relationship a tutor from the church cultivated with Taylor. That's when the church learned from Taylor's elementary school teacher he had the makings of a young leader.

"When Tyshawn was around, you didn’t miss it. He was around, and other kids watched him and followed his lead," added Beeson. "He was a presence, a force to be reckoned with -- I think."

While that force is no longer physically here, Taylor certainly isn't being forgotten.

"We will miss Tyshawn, but I believe we’ll see him again," closed Beeson.

Taylor's autopsy was scheduled to take place Thursday. Police have yet to make any arrests.

Since the investigation is ongoing, anyone with any information related to the case is asked to call CMHU at 235-5009 or Crime Stoppers at 288-STOP.