WAYNE, Mich. – A potential mass shooting at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne was thwarted Sunday through what security team member Jay Trombley describes as a combination of divine intervention, tactical response, and remarkable timing.
The incident unfolded around 11:15 a.m. when a gunman, identified as Brian Anthony Browning, 31, of Romulus, arrived at the church wearing a tactical vest and armed with multiple weapons.
Approximately 150 worshippers were inside the building, attending the morning service.
“I’ve always asked myself, when I hear that sound, will I run towards it or away from it?” Trombley said. “On Sunday, I answered that question.”
Multiple bullet holes now mark the church’s entrance, where Browning attempted to force his way inside, firing shots through the front door.
“I heard a noise that initially I thought was a mechanical issue in the building. That was a very quick thought because I turned around and saw people panicking and running. I asked what that noise was. A lady said AR-15,” Trombley said.
The incident started when one of the church’s deacons was running late and spotted Browning walking toward the entrance with multiple guns. The deacon then struck Browning with his pickup truck as the gunman began firing.
During the confrontation, one security team member was wounded in the leg but is expected to recover.
The church established a security team 10 years ago and recently attended a training session on protecting places of worship.
“First and foremost, trust in God,” Trombley said. “But also, be prepared.”
Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong praised the response during a press conference, saying, “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.”
According to police, Browning had no criminal history, though officials indicated he appeared to be suffering from a mental health crisis. His mother is reportedly a member of the church, and he has attended two or three services over the past year.
The FBI, along with multiple local and state agencies, is assisting in the ongoing investigation.
Watch the full interview below: