Wayne, Michigan — A shooting at CrossPointe Community Church on Sunday morning left one person injured and an alleged gunman dead, according to local authorities. The incident unfolded around 11:06 a.m. when police received multiple 911 calls reporting gunfire at the church located on Glenwood Road.
The suspect, identified as 31-year-old Brian Anthony Browning, reportedly arrived at the church driving erratically before exiting his vehicle clad in a tactical vest and armed with both a rifle and a handgun. Witnesses described Browning opening fire at the church, prompting a swift response from church staff and a parishioner who intervened.
Chief Ryan Strong of the Wayne Police Department reported that a parishioner struck Browning with their vehicle as two staff members returned fire, fatally wounding the assailant. Wayne Fire Rescue pronounced him dead at the scene.
A security guard involved in the confrontation recounted the chaos that ensued. Jay Trombley described the scene outside the church as one of terror, stating that gunfire peppered the lobby and left bullet holes throughout the building. Trombley expressed the gravity of his actions, acknowledging the emotional weight of taking a life but emphasizing his belief that he saved many others in the process.
During the church’s morning service, approximately 150 attendees were present, including women and children. A livestream of the event showed parishioners fleeing to safety as shots rang out. Two staff members, one of whom was shot in the leg, were transported to a hospital, where their injuries were deemed non-life-threatening.
Authorities are investigating the motive behind the shooting and have learned that Browning had attended services at CrossPointe Community Church on a few occasions in the past year. He reportedly had no criminal history and had not previously interacted with local police. Investigators discovered that Browning was heavily armed, with an AR-15 style rifle, multiple loaded magazines, a semi-automatic handgun, and considerable additional ammunition found at his residence following a search.
The church’s pastor, Bobby Kelly Jr., expressed gratitude for the quick actions of the church’s security team and the parishioner who helped thwart the attack. He noted that while congregants were understandably shaken, they were also grateful for the outcome, recognizing the potential for greater tragedy.
Kelly’s sentiments were echoed by others at the church, who in the aftermath of the shooting received offers of support from local communities and mental health agencies. Many are seeking to process the event, reflecting on the rapid response that prevented a more catastrophic situation.
Parishioner Dustin Fuoco, who operates the church’s sound system, described the intense moments that followed the initial gunfire. He recounted the panic he felt when searching for his wife and newborn baby amid the chaos, ultimately finding them safe after taking refuge in a wooded area near the church.
In the wake of this incident, the Wayne Police Department continues to assess the situation, providing updates as the investigation progresses. Community leaders emphasize the importance of resilience and connection, encouraging prayers and support during this challenging time.