New details have emerged about the man who allegedly planned to commit a mass shooting at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan. Authorities said the Michigan shooter, Brian Browning, crashed into the suburban Detroit church on Sunday morning (June 22) and began firing—before being killed by members of the church’s security team.
Browning, whose mother is a CrossPointe member, had attended worship there a few times during the previous year. Senior Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr. said Browning, 31, had also visited the church to debate religious topics with him.
According to Kelly, Browning claimed to be a prophet who “heard from God.” During Browning’s initial visit, Kelly said, he “had some questions about the Bible. He kind of challenged me on some things in the Bible, and so we went back and forth about some Scripture for a little bit.”
RELATED: Security Team at Michigan Church Thwarts Shooting During VBS Worship Service
When Browning returned in February, “he seemed to be genuine about needing some help,” Kelly said. “I don’t know exactly what it was, ’cause he didn’t say—didn’t say it was mental health. He didn’t say it was an issue that he had…[just], ‘Can you help me with some things?’ and I said, ‘Sure.’”
CrossPointe Pastor Andy Pugh said church officials had been “trying to steer [Browning] better.” He hadn’t ever threatened the church, the pastor added. And although Browning appeared to be mentally unwell, the consensus was that he had been progressing recently.
“There’s no anger and hatred towards his family and even towards him,” said Pugh. “We know he’s sick, and we’re sorry that it had to end that way.”
Church Formed Security Team Years Ago, Was Prepared for Michigan Shooter
As ChurchLeaders reported, a quick-thinking church deacon ran over the suspect with his pickup truck Sunday morning. Then members of the church’s security team shot Browning, and first responders declared him dead at the scene.
One security team member was shot in the leg and required surgery. The deacon who ran over the suspect with a pickup has asked not to be identified.
Police in Wayne praised the church leaders for likely saving “many lives” by acting swiftly. Browning, who was heavily armed, had no criminal history. Authorities found numerous other weapons and ammunition at his home.
At the time of the attack, about 150 worshipers were attending a special VBS service. More children than usual were present, to celebrate a successful week of vacation Bible school. A video clip shows worshipers scrambling for cover after hearing gunfire.
About a decade ago, CrossPointe formed a church security team in response to mass shootings throughout America. Pastor Pugh described the team members as “men who you could want as your neighbor.”
