MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – FOX10 News spoke exclusively with a close family friend following the tragic murder in Mobile.

Charity Matthews is accused of shooting her ex-boyfriend and his parents, killing her father.

FOX10 News has learned the father is Robert Matthews, a well-known pastor in Mobile.

Charity Matthews pleaded not guilty in court Thursday morning.

Family members say it’s very difficult to talk right now and describe the whole experience as a living nightmare.

Shavon Buchanan, a close family friend, is speaking on behalf of the Matthews family.

While she was recovering in the hospital, her mother said Twinetta was doing well.

Buchanan describes Pastor Matthews as an extraordinary leader, a godly man, and a loving husband and father.

He says the family relied on their faith to get through this unimaginable tragedy.

“Stay strong and I pray that you have peace and that God gives you a peace that passes all understanding,” Buchanan said. “And I know they’ll be fine.”

The fatal attack occurred Sunday night in Mobile.

Mobile Police Officers arrest woman accused of shooting her parents on Avonlea Court

Several MPD officers responded to a home on Avonlea Court shortly before 8 p.m.

They found Robert Matthews dead. His wife, Twinetta, was also shot and taken to the hospital.

Buchanan says he heard about the shooting on the news and couldn’t believe it when he found out it was them.

“When I found out it was the Matthews family, I really had no words,” Buchanan said. “It’s something you would never expect. It’s like I’m living in a nightmare because they are such a good family.”

Hours later, the victim’s daughter was arrested and charged with murder, two counts of attempted murder and reckless endangerment.

Police said she also shot at her brother and shot her ex-boyfriend, Samson Moore.

Traveler woman accused of shooting ex-boyfriend before allegedly shooting parents

Buchanan says he grew up knowing Charity and can’t imagine what led to this.

“I know Charity is a loving person. I know you carry love in your heart. “I know from personal conversations that I won’t share that he’s seen a lot and been through a lot,” Buchanan said. “There are just no words. I love him and I’m praying for him too.”

Robert Matthews was pastor of Joy Tabernacle on Ann Street.

Married for nearly fifty years, Buchanan says he is known as “Fun Dad” and his wife is known as “Mama Nett.”

He says the family remains strong as they try to get through this tragedy.

“They are a family with strong faith and knowledge of the power of Allah. And from the sound of Mama Net’s voice, everything is fine. I wish there was something I could do, because so many people have been hurt by this, including him, I’m sure. “But know that I love you as a friend,” he said. “To the Matthews family, thank you for allowing me to speak on your behalf. I am grateful to be a part of your family, to speak on your behalf and to remain strong.”

Charity Matthews is due in court next week for an Aniah Law hearing.

The state petitioned to hold him in jail without bail.

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