Clarence McCallister : Hero Pastor Speaks Out: Pennsylvania Church Gunman

The shocking event that captured national attention unfolded in front of a congregation at a church in North Braddock, Pennsylvania. An armed man entered the church and took aim at the pastor, Rev. Glenn Germany, in the midst of his Sunday sermon.

In a heart-stopping moment, the gunman pulled the trigger, but to everyone’s relief, the gun failed to fire. Deacon Clarence McCallister, who was recording the service, immediately sprang into action to tackle the assailant before he could attempt another shot.

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McCallister, a hero of Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church, recounted the tense moment, saying, “I heard it click, and I thought, ‘Oh, my God, thank God that gun jammed.’”

A man, identified as 26-year-old Bernard Polite, aims a gun at Rev. Glenn Germany during a sermon at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock, Pa. Polite faces charges after the gun failed to fire and churchgoers subdued him. (Glenn Germany/Local News X/TMX)

Deacon McCallister described the harrowing moment when he saw the gun pointed at the pastor, recalling, “He ducked down, and the guy’s going after him. That’s when I leaped up out of that chair and went after the guy.”

Video footage of the incident shows McCallister and Rev. Germany successfully disarming the suspect, later identified as 26-year-old Bernard Polite.

“My pastor’s life was in danger. I had to do something.”

— Clarence McCallister, the courageous church member who tackled the gunman

McCallister took control of the handgun while Germany assisted in subduing the suspect until law enforcement arrived.

The swift actions of McCallister and the congregation prevented a potential tragedy, with no injuries reported in the incident.

A congregant rushes to help disarm the gunman during the incident. No injuries were reported. (Glenn Germany/Local News X/TMX)

After the chaotic ordeal, McCallister urged for authorities to be contacted, emphasizing the severity of the situation.

McCallister, who works as a heavy equipment specialist in Pittsburgh, has since returned to his duties, taking each day as it comes.

Police swiftly apprehended Polite at the scene, and further investigations revealed a troubling discovery in a nearby residence, linking Polite to a separate criminal investigation.

According to reports, Polite exhibited signs of mental illness and made disturbing claims about being influenced by malevolent forces.

Rev. Germany details the assailant’s disturbed state, mentioning claims of possession by spirits. (Glenn Germany/Local News X/TMX)

McCallister stressed the importance of recognising and addressing mental health issues, advocating for greater awareness and support.

Both McCallister and Germany expressed disbelief at the assailant’s actions, affirming that they had no prior acquaintance with the individual.

As investigations continue, the community remains on alert, with anyone having pertinent information urged to contact the designated tip line.

Polite, currently detained without bail, faces serious charges including attempted homicide and aggravated assault, with a court appearance scheduled for May 13.

In a statement following the incident, Rev. Germany conveyed his gratitude for surviving the ordeal and expressed resilience in the face of adversity.