WAYNE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A 31-year-old man who attempted to shoot his way into a Wayne church filled with worshippers on Sunday morning is dead after one person hit him with a vehicle to stop him and a member of the security staff fired a fatal shot.
Shooter’s motive is unknown.
Police say Brian Anthony Browning did not have a criminal history and may have faced mental health problems. Law enforcement officers have not pinpointed a clear motive.
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Browning attended a handful of services at the CrossPointe Community Church during the past year and his mother is a member there.
A livestream video of the church services shows people ducking down, running, and directing people out of the sanctuary as the shots rang out. Roughly 150 people were in the church at the time.
Police chief: church members’ “heroic actions” saved lives.
Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong held a press conference on Sunday, saying the gunman shot a security guard in the leg but his injuries are not life-threatening. Chief Strong commended the congregation numerous times.
“We are grateful for the heroic actions of the church’s staff members who undoubtedly saved many lives and prevented a large-scale mass shooting,” Chief Strong said. “I would add that church parishioners and staff members were trained in responding to emergency situations which also saved lives.”
CrossPointe releases statement: “God’s hand of protection.”
CrossPointe issued a statement on Monday, expressing thanks to the first responders and acknowledging “God’s hand of protection” over the congregation and community.
“Through all of this, know that we will continue to declare the gospel of Jesus Christ with boldness and clarity so that people, including the Brian Browning’s of the world, can learn that we all can be forgiven if we repent from our sins and place our faith in Jesus Christ.”
Faith and firearms.
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Shootings at houses of worship in recent years have prompted the formation of security teams nationwide and in Michigan. Several organizations in the state offer church safety and security training, like Kingsmen PSC, Security Leaders Coalition, and Sheepdog Church Security.
The trainings vary, but generally focus on assessing threats, tactical training, positioning, surveillance, and how to protect the congregation and guide them to safety.
Local municipalities are willing to help with safety education as well. The Shiawassee County Sheriff’s Office has offered basic and advanced church security training to local congregations over the years.
People from other churches reached out to CrossPointe Community Church on Facebook saying they are praying for them and expressed thanks to the security team.
