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Panic as Gunfire Erupts Outside Church
As Browning began firing at the building from the parking lot, families inside the church scrambled to shield their children and seek cover. According to a livestream from inside, the sudden outbreak of gunfire shattered the calm of the worship service.
“It was the scariest thing I’ve ever been involved in,” said churchgoer Wendy Bodin. She recalled hiding in the bathroom as shots rang out. “Fortunately they got everyone out of the building safe.”
Armed Citizens Step Up — and Stop the Slaughter
This could’ve been one of the deadliest attacks on a church in years. But a brave parishioner saw an opportunity to act. As the shooter opened fire, the church member drove his vehicle directly into the suspect, taking fire in the process.
“A parishioner struck the gunman with his vehicle as the gunman shot the vehicle repeatedly,” confirmed Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong.
That courageous action disrupted the gunman’s attack, allowing other members of the church’s security team to respond. Two church staff members pulled their firearms and engaged the suspect, ultimately shooting him dead.
“At least two staff members shot the gunman, causing the fatal wounds,” Strong stated.
Years of Preparation Paid Off
The church wasn’t caught off guard. Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr. said CrossPointe had formed a security team years ago after growing concerns about attacks on houses of worship. “We felt like sitting ducks,” he said.
That foresight made all the difference. Thanks to their planning, not a single worshipper was killed. One security guard was wounded with two gunshots to the leg, but his injuries were described as “non-life-threatening.”
Killer Had Chilling Ties to Church
Perhaps most disturbing is the fact that Browning wasn’t a stranger. His mother attended the church, and he himself had visited multiple times in the past year. Yet no red flags were raised prior to the incident — he had no criminal record and no prior run-ins with the law.
When police searched his home, they found even more firearms and ammunition. Authorities believe he may have been planning a larger assault.
Federal Agents Join Investigation
With the FBI now involved, officials are working to understand what motivated Browning and how he slipped through the cracks. The community has been urged to stay away from the area as the investigation continues.
Dan Bongino, former Secret Service agent and now Deputy FBI Director, reportedly confirmed federal agents are coordinating with local law enforcement. Though details remain scarce, Bongino emphasized the importance of vigilance and citizen preparedness.
Faith, Firearms, and Fortitude
In the aftermath, Pastor Kelly made it clear: “The children who witnessed the shooting were doing good.” His words underscore the strength of a church that was shaken but not shattered.
Had the church been holding its outdoor Father’s Day service that Sunday, the outcome could’ve been catastrophic. “It could’ve been a bloodbath,” Bodin admitted.
Instead, because of trained, armed, and courageous Americans, evil was met with resistance — and ultimately, defeat. The congregation stood strong. They protected their own. And in doing so, they reminded the nation why the right to self-defense matters more than ever.
