Pennsylvania Man’s Gun Malfunctions While Attempting to Shoot Pastor During Church Sermon | US News
A man who attempted to shoot a pastor during a church service was subdued after his gun malfunctioned, as per the police report.
Bernard J. Polite, 26, claimed “God made me do it” and intended to “wait to be arrested”, court documents disclose, when he entered the Pennsylvania church just after 1pm on Sunday.
Glenn Germany, who was delivering a sermon that was being live streamed from Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church, told WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh that Polite grinned at him right before aiming the gun.
He dodged out of the way as an individual from the congregation tackled Polite, before helping to wrestle the gun away and restrain him until law enforcement arrived.
“I am feeling thankful that I woke up this morning and that I am here, it could have taken a different turn,” Mr Germany stated on Monday.
“But God intervened and I am grateful for him.”
Polite was not a familiar face at the church, officials mentioned, and court records state he wandered over to the church after hearing music coming from there.
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The body of a shooting victim was discovered in a home near the church in North Braddock, on a location Polite had visited shortly before heading to the church, as per county police.
The county medical examiner’s office determined the body as Derek Polite, 56, of North Braddock, but did not confirm any specific relation to Bernard Polite.
Polite is facing multiple charges, including aggravated assault and attempted homicide, and is currently held without bail.
State police mentioned they are unsure if Polite has legal representation, and county court records do not show one.
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In a Facebook post on Monday, the church said Pastor Glenn is “doing fine” and “he says he is doing great and blessed to be alive”.
“He sends his love to everyone and he thanks you all for your prayers and concerns,” it adds.
