Michigan Churchgoers Thwart Potential Mass Shooting After Gunman Opens Fire Outside Sunday Service

Wayne, MI — A terrifying situation unfolded during a Sunday morning service at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, when a man opened fire in the church parking lot — but quick-thinking members of the congregation likely saved dozens of lives.

The suspect, 31-year-old Brian Anthony Browning, arrived at the church on June 22 wearing camouflage and a tactical vest. Police say he pulled a rifle from his vehicle and began firing outside as roughly 150 people were inside worshipping.

Browning wasn’t a total stranger. He had previously attended the church with his mother, according to church leaders. But this time, he came armed and dangerous.

As chaos erupted outside, one brave church member took matters into his own hands. He used his pickup truck to strike Browning, pinning him down before he could enter the building. That act of courage gave church security the precious seconds they needed.

Trained safety personnel, already on alert, quickly returned fire. Browning was shot and killed by the church’s security team. One security guard was injured in the leg during the exchange but is expected to recover.

Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr., who was leading the service at the time, called it a miracle. “God was definitely at work here today,” he said. “What could have been a mass tragedy turned into an example of how prepared, faithful people can save lives.”

Investigators say Browning had no known criminal record and may have been experiencing a mental health crisis. Authorities are still working to determine his motive.

Meanwhile, church leaders are urging other faith communities to have strong security plans in place. “We never thought this could happen to us,” one churchgoer said, “but thank God we were ready.”

The FBI and local police continue to investigate.