Terror Strikes Michigan Church Service as Shots Ring Out

A terrifying scene unfolded at a Michigan church Sunday when a man opened fire during a service in Wayne. Police say the gunman was shot and killed by a security guard before anyone in the congregation could be seriously harmed.

The gunman has been identified as 31-year-old Brian Browning of Romulus.

Witnesses Describe Chaos Outside Church

The incident began Sunday morning (6/22) when Browning showed up at CrossPointe Community Church on Glenwood Road in Wayne. Witnesses say he was driving erratically in the church parking lot just after 11 a.m., while the worship service was underway. Browning, who was wearing camouflage and a tactical vest, got out of his vehicle and began retrieving firearms from his SUV.

Security Team’s Quick Response

Detroit’s WJBK-TV reports that as soon as Browning began firing, a church member struck him with a pickup truck. Members of the church security team, who are also parishioners, put the building on lockdown and confronted Browning before he could enter. Gunfire was exchanged, and Browning was fatally shot by a member of the security team.

Only one other person was injured: a security team member, who was shot in the leg. It’s unclear if that individual is the same one who shot Browning.

Security Team Credited with Saving Lives

Police tell the TV station that Browning’s mother is a member of CrossPointe Church and that he had attended services there in the past.

Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong praised the quick-thinking actions of church members who stopped the gunman.

“We are grateful for the heroic actions of the church’s staff members, who undoubtedly saved many lives and prevented a large-scale mass shooting,” he said.

Get our free mobile app

This House Has a Commode That's an Ode to Dwight Schrute

This lovely home in Howell, Michigan is beautiful. It's tastefully decorated in a lovely color scheme, there's extensive hardwood flooring, a newly remodeled kitchen, and - wait for it - a bathroom that pays homage to Dwight Schrute.

You're going to like what you see. That's what she said.

Gallery Credit: George McIntyre

Eight Michigan Men Whose Convictions Have Been Overturned Thanks to the Innocence Project

Since it was founded in 1992, the Innocence Project has worked to exonerate hundreds of people who have been erroneously convicted.

We're spotlighting five cases in which five Michigan residents were convicted and eventually released thanks in part to the Michigan Innocence Project.

Gallery Credit: George McIntyre