By BRUCE SHIPKOWSKI (Associated Press)
A man tried to shoot a pastor during a Pennsylvania church service because he believed God instructed him to do so. His attempt was unsuccessful as the gun did not fire, and he was stopped by a member of the congregation, as reported by authorities.
The incident took place at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock on Sunday, during a live-streamed service, according to state police.
Bernard J. Polite, 26, of Braddock, entered the church around 1 p.m. and approached the front where Rev. Glenn Germany was delivering a sermon, the police stated. The pastor revealed to WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh that Polite smiled at him and made eye contact before pointing the gun at him. Germany managed to evade the situation as a male member of the congregation tackled Polite. WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh Rev. Germany and the congregant then collaborated to disarm Polite, who was subsequently restrained until state troopers arrived.
Polite claimed that he was instructed by God to carry out the shooting and intended to wait for his arrest after shooting Germany, with the aim of going to jail to clear his mind, as per court documents. He is facing several charges, including aggravated assault and attempted homicide, and was held without bail at the Allegheny County Jail as of Monday. State police indicated they were unaware of Polite having legal representation, and county court records did not show any.
The body of a shooting victim was discovered in a residence close to the church that Polite had visited just before going to the church, according to county police. The county Medical Examiner’s office identified the body as belonging to Derek Polite, 56, of North Braddock, on Monday, but did not confirm if he was related to Bernard Polite.
Officials stated that Polite was not known at the church. Court documents mentioned that he wandered over to the church after hearing music playing there.
“I am feeling grateful that I woke up this morning and that I am here. It could have gone an opposite direction,” Germany told The Associated Press on Monday. “But God has intervened and I am grateful for him.”
By BRUCE SHIPKOWSKI (Associated Press)
