Attempted Church Shooting Thwarted: Suspect's Gun Jams, Saving Pastor's Life

Bernard Junior Polite, the alleged gunman who targeted Pastor Glenn Germany at Jesus' Dwelling Place Church in Pennsylvania, was disarmed after his gun malfunctioned, preventing a potential tragedy.

An attempted shooting at a Pennsylvania church was averted on Sunday when the suspect's gun jammed as he aimed at the pastor. Bernard Junior Polite, 26, has been charged with the unrelated murder of his cousin, who police say was killed with the same gun that failed to discharge during the thwarted attack.

Deacon Clarence McCallister, who was livestreaming the service, witnessed the incident unfold. He recounted hearing a click but no gunshot, providing a moment of relief for both the pastor and the congregation. McCallister swiftly intervened, tackling the suspect with the assistance of the pastor and holding him until police arrived.

According to court documents, Polite allegedly admitted to intending to kill the pastor, driven by voices he claimed to hear from spirits. Witnesses described the suspect's demeanor as calm and smiling as he was restrained.

Investigators determined that the firing pin had struck the primer but failed to ignite the weapon. McCallister emphasized the seriousness of mental illness, calling for greater recognition and treatment.

Both Pastor Germany and Deacon McCallister expressed their gratitude for the intervention that saved the pastor's life and prevented further tragedy. Public records indicate that Polite had ties to New Jersey, raising questions about his motive.

Hours after the church incident, Polite's relatives reported his cousin as deceased at a nearby home where they lived. Paramedics arrived to find Derek Polite with a fatal gunshot wound consistent with the .380-caliber handgun recovered from the church. A neighbor reported seeing Polite pacing on the porch around the time of the shooting.

Police have charged Polite with murder in addition to attempted homicide, aggravated assault, and reckless endangerment. He is currently detained without bail in the Allegheny County Jail, awaiting arraignment for the murder charge.

This incident highlights the importance of vigilance and the need for adequate security measures in places of worship. It also underscores the critical role of community members in preventing violent acts and protecting their neighbors.