Pastor's Life Spared in Pennsylvania Church Shooting, Homicide Charges Filed

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
07/05/2024 22h58

In a terrifying incident at the Jesus' Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock, Pennsylvania, a pastor narrowly escaped a shooting during a sermon on Sunday. The assailant, later identified as 26-year-old Bernard Junior Polite, was charged with homicide after police discovered the lifeless body of his cousin, Derek Polite, inside his residence.

The alarming incident, which was captured on a livestream, unfolded as Polite pulled out a handgun and aimed it at Reverend Glenn Germany. However, fortune favored Germany as the gun jammed, halting the assailant's plan. The shocking moment was captured on video, showing Polite being tackled from behind by a church deacon, Clarence McCallister.

Authorities later found Derek Polite fatally shot in the suspect's home, leading to murder charges against Bernard Polite. Witnesses who were interviewed by detectives observed the suspect pacing near the residence on the morning of the church incident, with one neighbor reporting a possible gunshot noise.

Bernard Polite currently remains in custody awaiting his arraignment. According to the criminal complaint, Polite confessed to attempting to kill the pastor and claimed that "God told him to do it." The motive and the relationship dynamics between the suspect and his late cousin remain under investigation.

During an interview on "Good Morning America," Reverend Germany expressed his gratitude for the miraculous turn of events that saved his life. He recounted how Polite entered the church, smiling at him before approaching the pulpit with the gun pointed at him. Quick thinking from Deacon Clarence McCallister resulted in Polite being swiftly subdued.

Germany hailed McCallister's actions as an "act of heroism." The deacon's quick response potentially prevented a tragedy from unfolding during the church service. The pastor credited his survival to divine intervention, reflecting on the moment when the gun jammed, saying, "That bullet had a name on it."

Law enforcement officials are continuing their investigation into the incident, analyzing evidence and interviewing witnesses. The community is shaken by the shocking events that unfolded within the walls of their local church but remains grateful that a tragedy was averted.

As the legal proceedings progress, the church and community are rallying together to support Reverend Germany and address any lingering concerns about safety and security. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in potentially dangerous situations.

The congregation is drawing strength from their faith as they heal from the traumatic event, reflecting on the miraculous outcome and expressing their gratitude for the pastor's survival.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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