NORTH BRADDOCK, PA – A tense moment unfolded during a church service at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church on Lobringer Avenue in North Braddock, Pennsylvania, when a man attempted to shoot Pastor Glenn Germany but was thwarted due to a firearm malfunction. The incident, which was captured during the church’s live-streamed service, occurred when the assailant, identified as 26-year-old Bernard Polite of Braddock, pointed a gun at the pastor and pulled the trigger.
“I’m thankful to God that I’m still here, because he definitely pulled the trigger,” Pastor Germany recounted to Pittsburgh’s Action News 4. The gun, however, did not discharge. The likely cause of the gun not discharging was that the assailant had not properly chambered a round.
The situation escalated quickly as church members reacted to protect their pastor. One courageous individual tackled Polite, risking his own life to disarm the gunman. “He could have lost his life in that struggle,” Pastor Germany noted, praising the man’s heroic actions.
The incident did not end with the failed attempt. Later that evening, police discovered a body in Polite’s home on the 500 block of Stokes Avenue, identified as 56-year-old Derek Polite, a relative of Bernard Polite. The circumstances surrounding Derek Polite’s death are still under investigation, with Bernard Polite currently facing charges of attempted homicide for the church incident.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of threats within even sacred spaces such as churches. It underscores the importance of legal, responsible gun ownership and the need for proper training and preparedness. Carrying a firearm, where legally permitted, even in places of worship, can provide crucial protection against potential threats. Additionally, ensuring that a firearm is ready and properly maintained is vital, as seen in the failure that potentially saved lives in this case.
Bernard Polite is currently held in Allegheny County Jail, awaiting a preliminary hearing later this month. Meanwhile, the church and the community continue to recover from the shock of the event, grateful for the outcome but reminded of the ever-present need for security and readiness.
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