Active Shooter Incident at Detroit-area Church Ends in Fatal Confrontation
Wayne, Michigan — A tense morning unfolded at Crosspointe Community Church on Sunday when a gunman engaged in an active shooting, prompting a swift response that ultimately resulted in his death. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. during a special vacation Bible school service attended by approximately 150 congregants, many of whom were children.
Courageous Response from Church Members
The chaos erupted as deacon members spotted the armed assailant and attempted to intervene. According to Senior Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr., one deacon heroically ran over the assailant with his Ford F-150 truck. This quick action provided the necessary opening for a church security guard to fatally shoot the 31-year-old suspect outside the church.
“I saw a member of our church run him over when he was coming into the church,” Pastor Kelly stated to The Detroit News. “It was an incredible act of bravery.” The police confirmed that the suspect was not affiliated with the congregation.
Casualties and Community Fear
While the shooter was killed, the confrontation was not without its toll; one security guard sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. Authorities received reports of multiple shots fired into the church during the incident, prompting immediate police action.
In a concerning detail, the shooter’s identity remains unknown as the investigation continues. Police have confirmed that the congregation had no previous threats against them, although the church has employed security measures for about a decade due to escalating violence at places of worship nationwide.
An Inside View of the Chaos
Witness accounts from church members reveal a moment of stark horror as sound from the service abruptly shifted to screams and confusion. A church official instructed attendees to move to the back of the room as shots could be heard, leading to a frantic evacuation as people ducked for cover. Video from the church’s livestream captured the heart-stopping moments as congregants reacted.
"We are sitting ducks to someone who wants to come and do harm," Pastor Kelly remarked, emphasizing the vulnerability that places of worship face in today’s climate.
Continuing Investigation
The Wayne Police Department and local authorities are actively investigating the incident, seeking to identify the shooter and understand the motivation behind the attack. As the community grapples with the aftermath, questions remain about church safety in an increasingly volatile society.
This developing story is being closely monitored, with updates expected as the investigation unfolds.
Focuses on crime, public safety, and regional events.
Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.