Michigan Hero Security Guard Stops Church Massacre: Gunman Shot Dead in Dramatic Mid-Service Confrontation
Police say swift action by a church security officer likely saved dozens of lives in a Michigan worship service turned war zone
WAYNE, MICHIGAN — An attack on a Michigan church was stopped in its tracks Sunday morning when a quick-thinking security guard shot and killed an armed man who opened fire during a worship service, according to police.
The terrifying scene unfolded shortly after 11 a.m. at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, a suburb west of Detroit, as congregants were gathered for their regular Sunday morning service. Law enforcement officials say the suspected gunman rammed his vehicle into the building and began firing at those inside, throwing the church into chaos.
The shooter, driving a Nissan pickup, allegedly stormed into the church with a firearm. Before he could cause further harm, a church security guard returned fire and killed the suspect, authorities confirmed. One person was struck in the leg during the exchange and received medical attention. Their condition has not been released.
A livestream of the service was running at the time of the incident and reportedly captured the panic as gunshots rang out and churchgoers fled the sanctuary. Police have since obtained the video as part of their investigation.
The Wayne Police Department stated on Facebook: “An armed subject was shot and killed by an on-site security guard during an incident at CrossPointe Community Church.” Law enforcement quickly responded to the scene, evacuating worshippers and launching a full-scale investigation.
As part of protocol in potential terror-related incidents, a Michigan State Police bomb-sniffing K-9 unit and bomb squad were dispatched to the church. However, no immediate evidence of explosives was found, officials said.
The FBI has joined the investigation, confirming it has agents assisting local law enforcement in determining the suspect’s motive and whether the attack was part of a broader threat.
“Our leadership and support teams are on the ground, at the scene, in Wayne, Michigan providing assistance and investigative support,” said FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino.
This attempted massacre occurs amid heightened national security concerns following a recent U.S. military strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, which destroyed or damaged key sites. While the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has warned of possible domestic repercussions, including cyberattacks or lone-wolf violence, it is not yet known whether Sunday’s church shooting was connected.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem commented on the broader security situation:
“It is our duty to keep the nation safe and informed, especially during times of conflict. The ongoing Israel-Iran conflict brings the possibility of increased threat to the homeland in the form of possible cyberattacks, acts of violence, and antisemitic hate crime.”
Following the U.S. strike, DHS released a public bulletin warning of likely “low-level cyberattacks” and noting that domestic extremists might respond violently if encouraged by Iranian leadership. Authorities are now working to determine if the church shooting fits that pattern.
Police have not yet released the identity of the shooter or the heroic security guard who prevented what could have been a mass tragedy. As investigations continue, officials are urging the public to stay alert and report anything suspicious.