Church Tragedy Averted: Armed Attacker Brian Browning Shot Dead During CrossPointe Community Church Shooting in Wayne, Michigan
Authorities have identified the suspect involved in the attempted mass shooting during Sunday’s service at CrossPointe Community Church as 31-year-old Brian Browning of Romulus, Michigan. The suspect drove his truck onto church property around 11 a.m., crashed it into the parking area, and began firing indiscriminately into the worshipper gathering .
🔪 The Attack Unfolds
- 11 a.m. Incident: Brian Browning allegedly plowed his vehicle into the church grounds in Wayne, MI—a suburb of Detroit—and opened fire inside the building. Close to 150 congregants were present when the attack began .
- Immediate Heroic Response: A brave church member acted swiftly, using his own truck to strike Browning, temporarily disabling him and providing crucial cover .
- Security Guard Neutralizes Threat: Trained through the church’s decade-old volunteer security initiative, the guard shot and killed Browning, ending the immediate danger .
🩹 Damage & Rescue
- The guard sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and is currently receiving treatment; his condition is reported as stable .
- Remarkably, no other congregants were injured, largely due to the prompt actions of the truck driver and security guard .
🛡️ Security Preparedness Saved Lives
Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr. highlighted the importance of the church’s volunteer security team, instituted ten years ago in response to growing incidents of violence at places of worship. Members and guests, including children, were guided calmly to safety—some captured in real time via live-streamed footage .
🔍 Ongoing Investigation
- The Wayne Police Department, with backing from the FBI and Homeland Security, is conducting a comprehensive investigation into Browning’s motives, movements prior to the attack, and any affiliations .
- Authorities have urged the public to avoid the church vicinity while officers collect evidence and review surveillance footage .
🙏 Community Response & Healing
The episode has left a profound emotional impact on the church and broader community. Many survivors described the experience as terrifying, praising the truck driver and security guard as heroes whose decisive actions likely prevented significant casualties .
Looking ahead, CrossPointe and community leaders plan:
- Trauma counseling for congregants, especially children.
- Vigils and prayer services to support collective healing.
- Review and enhancement of safety measures and emergency protocols.
🕊️ Hope Amid Darkness
In the aftermath of violence, the congregation at CrossPointe remains resilient. Their unity, bravery, and faith serve as a testament to their strength. The church’s commitment to preparedness—and the valor of ordinary members—stands as a powerful reminder: even in the face of terror, individuals can act decisively to protect others.
Brian Browning’s identity and actions are now confirmed; the community moves forward honoring the swift intervention that saved lives, while authorities continue to investigate this chilling event.