On Sunday morning, June 22, what began as a typical worship service at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, turned into a terrifying ordeal when a man opened fire outside the building. Located in a suburb of Detroit, the church quickly found itself at the center of an active shooter situation that could have ended in tragedy if not for the swift actions of its members and security team.
According to the Wayne Police Department, the gunman, identified as a 31-year-old White male, discharged his weapon several times during the service. At the time, about 150 people were inside, including an unusually high number of children. Thankfully, the shooter never entered the sanctuary, but his presence and actions caused immediate panic.
The situation escalated quickly but was met with equally decisive action. A church deacon, upon realizing what was happening, used his vehicle—a Ford F-150 pickup truck—to strike the attacker. Senior Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr., who witnessed the event, later explained that the deacon acted instinctively after spotting the gunman outside. The impact immobilized the suspect long enough for the church’s security guard to intervene.
The guard, who was armed, then fired at the suspect, fatally wounding him before police arrived at the scene. Authorities later confirmed that the shooter died from his injuries. In an official statement, the Wayne Police Department spokesperson told PEOPLE that the security guard’s response effectively stopped the attack before it could cause more harm.
While the majority of those inside the church were unharmed, the security guard himself sustained injuries during the confrontation. Local news outlets reported that he was the only person wounded in the incident. Despite the fear and chaos, the outcome could have been far worse had the shooter managed to enter the crowded sanctuary.
Livestream footage of the service captured the congregation’s reaction when the first shots rang out. The video reveals the tense moments inside, with voices urgently instructing worshippers to take cover. “Get down,” one person can be heard saying, followed by another leader urging, “Everyone to the back. Please, everyone, move to the back.” The footage highlights the confusion and fear but also shows how church leaders guided the congregation to safety as events unfolded outside.
In the aftermath, Pastor Kelly spoke with Detroit News, reassuring the community that the congregation is leaning on one another for support. He emphasized that the children who were present during the shooting are “doing well,” and the church is taking steps to help everyone process the traumatic experience. “We will be gathering our leadership to establish a formal plan for the aftermath,” Kelly explained, noting that the church’s focus is on healing and ensuring safety moving forward.
Importantly, authorities and church leaders clarified that the assailant did not appear to have any direct connection to CrossPointe Community Church. His motives remain unclear, but his decision to target the congregation left the community shaken and determined to strengthen its preparedness.
For many, the events of June 22 serve as a sobering reminder of the unpredictable nature of violence in public spaces—even sacred ones. Yet the quick thinking of the deacon and the bravery of the security guard likely prevented a devastating mass casualty event. Their actions underscore the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and the presence of security measures in places where people gather.
As the investigation continues, the congregation of CrossPointe Community Church has chosen to focus on resilience. Members are rallying together, offering emotional support, and reaffirming their faith. What could have been a day remembered for tragedy is instead being seen as a moment where courage and unity stopped a crisis from spiraling further out of control.
