Wife of Slain Missionary Charged as ‘Co-Author’ in His Murder
Police allege the attack was part of a plot to restart life with new lover
Jackie Shroyer, who was arrested in October 2024 in Angola, Africa, for the alleged murder of her missionary husband Beau Shroyer, has now been formally charged as a “co-author” in his death.
Jackie and Beau Shroyer / Photo via social media
Beau previously served as a pastor at Lakes Area Vineyard Church in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, where Lead Pastor Troy Easton updated congregants on the situation on February 24.
“It saddens me immensely to have to share with you that we were notified that Jackie has been formally charged as a co-author in the murder of her husband,” the statement reads.
For three years, Beau and Jackie Shroyer and their five children had lived in the “remote bush” of Angola. On October 25, police found Beau Shroyer brutally stabbed to death in his vehicle outside Lubango, where the family lived in a walled compound.
Jackie Shroyer’s statements at the scene sparked police suspicion that Beau’s slaying was an organized plot involving three men paid to kill him. They began an investigation, alleging that Jackie might have been the mastermind.
During their investigation, detectives gained “strong suspicion” to believe Jackie was having an affair with one of the men—the family’s security guard.
Jackie allegedly offered the men $50,000 to kill her husband by luring him to a secluded location and stabbing him to death. The plot included pretending their car broke down. The attack happened while Jackie claimed she was in the woods using the restroom.
At the scene, police discovered a knife belonging to the bodyguard—a gift once given to him by Beau.
The Shroyers were longtime members of Lakes Area Vineyard Church. In 2021, they relocated with their five children to a remote village in Angola for youth outreach work under the evangelical mission organization SIM USA.
On February 20, SIM published a statement regarding Jackie’s charges. “SIM is working closely with her [Jackie’s] legal team to determine the most appropriate next steps. She continues to be held in custody, supported by SIM colleagues and others,” it says.
The statement adds that “close family” is caring for the Shroyer children, who are receiving additional support from SIM counselors. “We are also providing ongoing care for our teams in Angola and the United States, ensuring they have access to the resources they need during this difficult time,” it continues.
Meanwhile, the church has launched a campaign in partnership with SIM to provide support in caring for the Shroyers’ five children, ages nine to 17.
A GoFundMe campaign launched in October raised over $15,000 to assist with bringing Beau home, covering his burial, and supporting the pursuit of justice. A memorial service for Beau took place on November 30, where attendees honored him through prayer and stories reflecting his impact on their lives.
Delays and customs closures postponed Beau’s burial in the U.S. until December 21. “We feel so blessed to have him ‘home,’ where we’ll be able to visit him when we need that comfort. Thank you again for your support,” the update said.
According to the statement, Jackie will remain in custody and will now face trial before a judge. A court date is expected to take place within the next six months.
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