A security guard at a suburban Detroit church acted swiftly to stop a shooting on Sunday, fatally shooting a gunman who opened fire during a worship service. The incident left one person injured and sparked a broader conversation about safety in houses of worship.
The shooting occurred at Greater Faith Ministries Church in Warren, Michigan, located just north of Detroit. Authorities say a man armed with a firearm entered the church during a service and began shooting, striking at least one person.
Panic ensued as congregants rushed for cover. Within seconds, a security guard on duty at the church intervened and shot the assailant, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Warren Police Chief William Dwyer commended the guard’s rapid response, stating, “This could have been a much more tragic event. The security officer’s actions potentially saved many lives.”
The wounded individual was transported to a local hospital and remains in stable condition, according to medical personnel. The names of both the shooter and the victim have not been released, pending further investigation and notification of families.
Authorities are still working to determine the motive behind the attack. Initial information suggests the suspect may have had a personal connection to someone within the church community, but officials have not confirmed this detail.
Warren Mayor James Fouts praised the guard’s actions as “heroic,” adding that the quick intervention prevented what could have been a mass casualty incident.
Church leadership announced that counseling services would be made available for congregants in the aftermath of the traumatic event. They also stated they would review existing security procedures to ensure the continued safety of worshippers.
The investigation remains ongoing, with federal agencies assisting local law enforcement in conducting ballistics tests and background checks on the suspect.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of attacks on places of worship in the U.S., renewing calls for enhanced security measures in religious institutions nationwide.
