Body Found in Home of Man Accused of Attempted Shooting at Pennsylvania Church

A shocking incident unfolded during a church service at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church on Lobringer Avenue in North Braddock. A man, allegedly attempting to shoot the pastor, pulled out a gun, but divine intervention seemingly thwarted his intentions. Following Polite’s arrest, investigators visited his home on Stokes Avenue. There, they made a grim discovery: the lifeless body of a 56-year-old man. The victim, Derek Polite, turned out to be a relative of Bernard Polite. 

Why It Matters

This incident raises critical questions about mental health, religious fervor, and the role of faith in violent acts. How does one reconcile a divine directive to commit violence? Moreover, the tragic discovery of a lifeless body in the suspect’s home underscores the far-reaching consequences of such events.

Pastor Glenn Germany was delivering a sermon when an unknown man suddenly stepped forward, brandishing a firearm. The church’s live-stream captured the tense moment as the gun jammed, sparing Pastor Germany’s life. “I’m thankful to God that I’m still here,” said Germany, recounting the harrowing experience. The pastor had never seen the gunman before, but the man’s frequent visits to the church had caught his attention.

As panic ensued, church members sprang into action. One brave individual tackled the gunman, preventing further harm. “He could have lost his life in that struggle,” Germany acknowledged, “but he sacrificed himself for everyone, and he’s the hero.”

Authorities identified the suspect as 26-year-old Bernard Polite from Braddock. In a chilling twist, Polite confessed to police that he attempted to shoot Pastor Germany because “God told him to do it.” He expressed a desire to go to jail to “clear his mind.”

As the investigation continues, Bernard Polite faces charges related to the church incident, including attempted homicide. Meanwhile, the community grapples with shock and disbelief, hoping for answers in this perplexing case. The Allegheny County Jail now holds Polite, awaiting a preliminary hearing later this month .

Key Takeaways

• Shocking incident unfolds during church service in North Braddock as man allegedly attempts to shoot pastor, but gun jams.
• Tragic discovery made at suspect's home: lifeless body of 56-year-old relative Derek Polite.
• Pastor Glenn Germany recounts harrowing experience, thankful for survival, as gunman's frequent church visits raise concerns.
• Brave church member tackles gunman, preventing further harm, hailed as hero.
• Suspect identified as 26-year-old Bernard Polite, confesses to police that he acted on God's directive.