NORTH BRADDOCK, PA – Disturbing events unfolded during a Sunday sermon in a Pennsylvania church, when an assailant allegedly attempted to shoot the pastor at point-blank range. Thanks to a malfunctioning firearm, Pastor Glenn Germany and a congregant were able to subdue the attacker, preventing any injuries.
Shockingly, this incident occurred during a live stream of the sermon at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock, Pennsylvania. Bernard Polite, a 26-year-old, reportedly approached the pulpit during the sermon and tried to shoot Pastor Germany, based on the video that subsequently made rounds online.
What could have escalated into a chaotic scene turned into a moment of heroic intervention when Polite’s gun failed to go off. This incident allowed Pastor Germany to flee for safety as another congregant pounced on Polite. The pastor then managed to pry the gun from Polite’s grasp.
The pastor admitted that he hadn’t seen Polite before the shooting scare. Germany mentioned that Polite had smiled at him before pulling his gun out, adding, “All of a sudden, I just saw a gun pointing right at me. And at that point, all I could try to do is run for cover.”
After Polite was apprehended, Pastor Germany had an opportunity to speak with him. Germany surmised that Polite was wrestling with some form of mental illness. The minister also claimed that Polite apologized for his actions, to which Germany expressed forgiveness.
Amid praising the churchgoer who tackled Polite, Germany labeled him a “hero,” acknowledging that the person risked their life in the process for the welfare of the entire congregation.
Polite’s charges include multiple counts, including attempted homicide. He is currently detained in a Pittsburgh jail, awaiting a court appearance.
According to a criminal complaint obtained, Polite informed police that he felt compelled to shoot Pastor Germany because “God told him to do it” and admitted his hope to go to jail to gain mental clarity.