On June 22, 2025, a potential mass shooting was thwarted at CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, thanks to the swift and courageous actions of its security team and a congregation member. This incident, reported by The Roys Report, underscores the critical importance of robust security measures in places of worship to protect religious communities from unexpected threats. In this article, we explore the details of the event, commend the heroes who prevented a tragedy, and provide practical recommendations for implementing effective security systems, drawing on the expertise of 360 Protective Solutions.
Incident Overview
During a Sunday morning service attended by over 100 people, including children at a Vacation Bible School, 31-year-old Brian Anthony Browning arrived at the CrossPointe Community Church parking lot armed with an AR-15-style rifle, a semi-automatic pistol with an extended magazine, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. According to Wayne Police Chief Ryan Strong, Browning appeared to be experiencing a mental health crisis. His mother, a church member, and his occasional attendance at prior services did not initially raise suspicion. However, his erratic behavior while driving a Nissan truck in the parking lot alerted churchgoers.
A congregant, described as “divinely positioned” by Senior Pastor Bob Kelly Jr., acted swiftly by ramming Browning’s vehicle with his own, preventing the attacker from entering the building. Subsequently, two members of the church’s security team engaged the assailant, fatally wounding him. During the confrontation, one security guard sustained a leg injury but is in stable condition following successful surgery. The rapid response of the security team and the congregant’s bravery averted what Chief Strong described as a potential “large-scale mass shooting.”
Commending the Heroes
From 360 Protective Solutions, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the anonymous congregant and the CrossPointe Community Church security team, particularly Jay Trombley, who spoke about his instinctive response to protect his community. Their courage, preparedness, and decisive action saved countless lives. This heroic act is a testament to the impact that proper training and a commitment to safety can have in critical moments. The church, which established a security team over a decade ago in response to rising violence against places of worship, demonstrated that investing in preventive measures is essential.
How to Implement an Effective Church Security System
Drawing on our expertise at 360 Protective Solutions, we offer the following recommendations for churches and other places of worship to strengthen their security protocols and prevent similar incidents:
1. Forming a Trained Security Team
- Professional Training: Train a security team in crisis management, conflict de-escalation, and, where legally applicable, responsible firearm use. Regular drills are essential to ensure members are prepared to act under pressure, as demonstrated by the CrossPointe team.
- Member Selection: Choose individuals with strong observational skills, composure under stress, and a commitment to community safety. The CrossPointe team’s preparedness was key to their success.
2. Vigilance and Situational Awareness
- Environmental Monitoring: Train staff and volunteers to recognize suspicious behavior, such as Browning’s erratic driving in the parking lot. Security cameras and active observation are critical tools.
- Efficient Communication: Establish clear communication channels, such as radios or mobile apps, to quickly alert the security team to potential threats.
3. Rapid Response Protocols
- Evacuation Plans: Develop and practice evacuation plans to ensure congregants, especially children, can exit safely, as seen in CrossPointe’s livestream where attendees were directed to the back of the building.
- Coordinated Intervention: Train the team to coordinate responses, including neutralizing threats, as exemplified by the congregant who rammed the attacker’s vehicle and the guards who responded with precise action.
4. Investment in Security Technology
- Alarm and Lockdown Systems: Install automatic locks on entryways and alarm systems to alert security teams and authorities. At CrossPointe, locking the main doors was critical in preventing the attacker’s entry.
- Cameras and Monitoring: Use high-quality cameras to monitor key areas like parking lots and entrances, enabling early threat detection.
5. Collaboration with Local Authorities
- Police Partnerships: Build relationships with local law enforcement for coordinated drills and information sharing about potential threats. The swift response from the FBI and Wayne police in this case highlights the value of such collaboration.
- Risk Assessments: Work with security experts, like 360 Protective Solutions, to conduct regular vulnerability assessments of facilities.
6. Mental Health Support
- Identifying Warning Signs: While Browning’s motives remain unclear, police noted a possible mental health crisis. Train staff to recognize signs of emotional distress among attendees and provide resources to support those in need.
- Community Outreach Programs: Foster an inclusive environment to reduce the risk of individuals in crisis targeting the church.
360 Protective Solutions’ Mission
At 360 Protective Solutions, our mission is to empower religious communities and other organizations to protect their members through comprehensive security solutions. The CrossPointe Community Church incident is a reminder that preparedness and swift action can save lives. We offer consulting, training, and security technology tailored to the unique needs and budgets of places of worship.
Conclusion
The heroism displayed by the CrossPointe Community Church security team and the courageous congregant is an inspiring example of how preparation and bravery can prevent tragedy. At 360 Protective Solutions, we applaud their actions and urge other churches to follow their lead by investing in robust security systems. By implementing training, technology, and clear protocols, religious communities can protect their members and maintain their spaces as sanctuaries of peace and worship.
For more information on how 360 Protective Solutions can help strengthen your church’s security, visit 360protectivesolutions.com.
