A Pennsylvania pastor narrowly escaped tragedy when his Sunday sermon was interrupted by a gunman whose weapon malfunctioned, giving congregants a chance to overpower him.
Pastor Glenn Germany of Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock found himself facing a life-threatening situation when a man, identified as 26-year-old Bernard Polite, entered the church and aimed a gun at him.
Surveillance footage captured the terrifying moment as Pastor Germany took cover behind his lectern after Mr. Polite raised his arm, attempting to shoot. Fortunately, the gun malfunctioned, sparing Pastor Germany’s life.
Following the incident, police discovered another man, identified as Derek Polite, fatally shot at his home in North Braddock.
While Bernard Polite was apprehended, investigators are yet to comment on the relationship between the two victims.
The Allegheny County Police Department’s homicide unit has taken over the investigation, but no charges have been filed regarding Derek Polite’s death.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Pastor Germany expressed gratitude, believing divine intervention had spared him.
“I’m so grateful,” he stated. “You know, he shot. You can hear the gun click.” Recalling the moment, he described seeing Mr. Polite walked in the church with a smile before pointing the gun directly at him.
As the congregation reacted swiftly, church Deacon Clarence McCallister tackled Mr. Polite, allowing Pastor Germany to disarm him.
Upon the arrival of law enforcement, Mr. Polite expressed remorse, citing mental illness and claiming to have heard voices instructing him to shoot the pastor.
Mr. Polite now faces charges, including attempted homicide, and remains in custody without bail.
According to a criminal complaint, he confessed to attempting to shoot Pastor Germany because he believed “God told him to do it” and hoped incarceration would clear his mind.
The harrowing incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by communities and the swift actions that can prevent tragedy.
