A calm and ordinary church service in Michigan was abruptly interrupted by an unexpected and dangerous individual—an active shooter. This alarming event was captured live on the church’s livestream, showing a lone gunman suddenly throwing the congregation into chaos before being stopped by the church’s security team, preventing what could have been a tragic mass shooting.
The incident took place in Wayne, Michigan, at the Crosspointe Community Church around 11:00 AM. Regular attendees were participating in a morning service when a 31-year-old white male, clad in a tactical vest and armed with a rifle, exited his vehicle and entered the church grounds, firing shots at some parishioners outside.
Fortunately, the church’s security guards were on site and acted swiftly to neutralize the threat by fatally shooting the attacker.
Police Chief Ryan Strong stated during a press briefing:
“A parishioner hit the gunman with his vehicle while the gunman fired multiple shots at the vehicle. At least two staff members returned fire and inflicted fatal wounds on the shooter.
We are deeply thankful for the courageous efforts of the church staff, who undoubtedly saved numerous lives and prevented a large-scale mass shooting.”
Transcript courtesy of AP News.
Meanwhile, the church’s livestream captured the moment panic erupted as congregants heard gunfire and were instructed to evacuate to safety. Security personnel were seen rushing to the entrance to confront the shooter.
An eyewitness video from CrossPointe Community Church shows the congregation scrambling for cover behind chairs and fleeing the area upon hearing reports of the shooter.
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One security guard sustained a leg injury during the incident, and a vehicle belonging to a parishioner was struck by multiple bullets. The wounded security officer has since undergone surgery and is expected to recover fully.
The attacker, identified as Brian Anthony Browning, appeared frustrated after being struck by the parishioner’s vehicle during his assault. His motives remain unclear, though officials suspect he may have been experiencing a mental health crisis.
US Gun Issues Highlighted Again
Browning had no prior criminal record. Interestingly, his mother was a member of Crosspointe Community Church, and he had attended two or three services in the past year.
While mass shootings within churches are fortunately rare in the United States, safety concerns at places of worship have intensified following this event. Many online users have expressed anxiety about their families’ safety, and others have debated whether churches should need security guards at all.
Despite gratitude toward the Michigan church’s security team for preventing disaster, many find it heartbreaking that such protection has become necessary. This incident has reignited discussions about America’s escalating gun violence problem.
Comments from the public reflect this sentiment:
- Lubizzle: “Security Guards for church, that shouldn’t have to be a thing!”
- Ash: “The lack of urgency in some of these people.”
- RayCaveHQ: “This is heartbreaking. No one should have to run for their life in a place of worship.”