Gunman Shot Dead After Attack at Wayne Church During Service

Wayne, Michigan, USA - In a terrifying incident that unfolded on June 22, 2025, at the CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, a man armed with multiple firearms targeted the congregation during a vacation Bible School service. The gunman, identified as 31-year-old Brian Anthony Browning from Romulus, Michigan, reportedly began shooting outside the church around 11 a.m., while approximately 150 individuals were present inside the building. Witnesses described Browning’s erratic behavior prior to the attack, including driving a silver SUV and unloading guns from his vehicle. Fortunately, a church security team was in place, and a swift response helped to avert a larger tragedy. According to the Daily Caller, Browning was fatally shot by security personnel after exchanging gunfire.

Reports state that the suspect, who had no prior criminal history, was armed with an AR-15-style rifle, a semi-automatic handgun, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. In the chaos that ensued, one member of the security team sustained a gunshot wound to the leg and required surgery but is expected to recover. Tragically, Browning’s mental health was under scrutiny, as authorities suggested he may have been experiencing a crisis at the time of the attack. The Detroit News reports that while Browning did not enter the church, the gunfire caused panic among congregants, who initially mistook the shots for construction noise.

Community Response and Security Measures

In light of the incident, Sheriff Grady Judd of Polk County, Florida, has emphasized the importance of enhanced security at houses of worship across the nation. The harrowing experience at CrossPointe Community Church serves as a stark reminder of the growing challenges that religious organizations face today. According to Church Security Solutions, there were over 436 documented acts of hostility towards churches in the U.S. in 2023 alone, a troubling rise from the previous year. This shift in the landscape of violence necessitates proactive measures from congregations to ensure the safety of their members.

The church’s security team had been established in direct response to the increasing rates of violence against places of worship. Local officials, including State Sen. Darrin Camilleri, lauded the preparedness and quick action of the CrossPointe staff, which likely prevented further harm and potentially saved lives. This incident, while tragic, has sparked discussions within the community about the urgent need for a formal security plan and training for church staff to better handle potential threats in the future.

In an era where mental health issues are becoming more prevalent—affecting 23% of adults and a notable portion of youth—churches are grappling with their dual role as sanctuaries and providers of support. It’s crucial for these institutions to not only offer spiritual guidance but also to be prepared for incidents that could arise from mental health crises within their communities. As highlighted by Church Security Solutions, addressing issues related to mental health, substance abuse, and inadequate planning is vital for the well-being of both congregants and church staff alike.

No one ever wants to imagine their place of worship becoming a target for violence, yet the evidence suggests that churches must take these threats seriously. The CrossPointe shooting is a call to action for all places of worship to enhance security measures and to foster a culture of safety that includes clear protocols for emergency situations. As hosts of vital community services, it’s imperative that churches remain vigilant and adequately prepared to face these modern challenges head-on.