A terrifying incident unfolded at Jesus' Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock, Pennsylvania, when a gunman attempted to shoot the pastor during his Sunday sermon. The armed man aimed his gun at the pastor, but miraculously, the weapon malfunctioned, sparing the pastor's life.
Deacon Clarence McCallister, who was recording the service, bravely intervened by tackling the gunman before he could fire another shot. McCallister's quick actions prevented a potential tragedy from occurring.
Following the ordeal, the suspect was identified as Bernard Polite, 26, who was apprehended by Pennsylvania State Police at the scene. Authorities also discovered a deceased individual in a nearby residence linked to Polite, prompting a homicide investigation.
Witnesses and police reports indicated that Polite exhibited signs of mental illness, claiming to have been influenced by voices instructing him to harm the pastor. Both McCallister and the pastor emphasized the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues.
McCallister, a city employee and the hero of the day, downplayed his actions, stating that he was simply responding to the situation at hand. He and the pastor expressed gratitude for surviving the harrowing incident.
Polite is currently held without bail at the Allegheny County Jail, facing charges of attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and endangering others. His court appearance is scheduled for May 13.
This alarming event serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the bravery of individuals like Deacon McCallister, who selflessly put themselves in harm's way to protect others.
