Deacon Confronts and Stops Michigan Church Shooter in Divine Moment

A deacon at a Michigan church believed he was guided by divine intervention when he took action against an armed shooter outside a suburban church. Richard Pryor, serving at CrossPointe Community Church, was the first to encounter 31-year-old Brian Anthony Browning as he arrived heavily armed with tactical gear and numerous rounds of ammunition.

Noticing Browning in fatigues and armed with a firearm, Pryor approached him cautiously, asking if he was okay. When Browning did not respond, Pryor, feeling a spiritual calling, drove his truck at the gunman, hitting him and temporarily stopping his advance. Pryor explained that he felt compelled by a divine purpose to prevent harm, realizing afterward the extent of Browning’s intended damage, which threatened multiple families present that day.

Browning managed to discharge several rounds, including one at Pryor’s vehicle, before members of the church’s security team returned fire. They wounded Browning, who was then pronounced dead at the scene despite attempts at resuscitation by police. The incident resulted in a member of the security team being wounded in the leg, but he is reported to be stable.

Continued investigations reveal Browning was well-armed with an AR-15-style rifle, multiple fully loaded magazines, a semi-automatic handgun, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition. Authorities found additional weapons at his residence. He had no previous criminal record but was possibly experiencing a mental health crisis.

A crowdfunding effort has gained over $36,000 for Pryor to replace his destroyed truck. Browning’s mother was a church member, and he had attended services there a few times in the past year.

Reflecting on the event, Pryor expressed that his actions were driven by a spiritual conviction, acknowledging that his faith played a key role in intervening during the crisis.