In a remarkable display of courage and quick thinking, two members of CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan, have been hailed as heroes after thwarting an attempted mass shooting during a worship service. On Sunday, June 22, 2025, Deacon Richard Pryor and Ron Amann, a security team member, acted swiftly to protect their congregation from a potentially devastating tragedy.
The incident began when 31-year-old Brian Browning approached the church armed with an AR-15-style rifle and an alarming 500 rounds of ammunition. Eyewitnesses reported that Browning drove erratically before parking near the church, dressed in camouflage and a tactical vest—a sight that raised immediate concern. As he opened fire, Pryor, who was in the parking lot, spotted the shooter and made a split-second decision that would change the course of the day.
In an act of bravery that can only be described as extraordinary, Pryor used his truck to hit Browning, buying crucial seconds for the church’s armed security team to respond. This quick thinking was instrumental in preventing further harm to the congregation. Tragically, Browning was fatally shot during the ensuing confrontation with church security.
The community has rallied around Pryor and Amann, with GoFundMe campaigns launched to support their recovery and needs following the traumatic event. As of Thursday, one campaign for Pryor had raised over $24,000, while another for Amann, who suffered a severe leg injury, had garnered more than $38,000.
Amann’s injury was serious, resulting in a shattered tibia that required extensive surgery. His recovery is expected to take several months, and the GoFundMe campaign organizer emphasized the importance of community support during this challenging time. "God spared Ron’s life and was mighty in His protection over the security team and congregation," wrote the campaign’s organizer, highlighting the faith that underpins their resilience.
Psalm 37:23-24 resonates deeply in this context: "The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD upholds his hand." This verse serves as a reminder of divine protection amid chaos.
In an interview, Amann recounted the harrowing moments of the shooting, describing the sound of gunfire as a series of pops that initially left him confused. Upon realizing the danger, he quickly directed his family to safety and rushed toward the threat. "When I got into that area, he was sitting on the ground with a rifle… He just started spraying bullets into the lobby," Amann recalled, illustrating the chaos that unfolded in those terrifying moments.
The church community has expressed immense gratitude for Pryor’s and Amann’s actions. Fellow church member Dustin Fuoco remarked that despite the accolades, Pryor remains humble, attributing his actions to divine guidance rather than seeking recognition. "He is one of the most humble guys I’ve ever seen," Fuoco stated.
In the days leading up to the shooting, Browning had engaged in discussions with Pastor Bobby Kelly Jr. about religious matters, indicating some level of distress. Kelly noted that Browning had sought help from the church earlier in the year but did not explicitly mention any mental health issues. In a tragic twist, the very church that aimed to help him became the target of his violent outburst.
This incident has sparked conversations about safety in places of worship and the need for preparedness in the face of rising violence. Many churches are now reevaluating their security measures to ensure the safety of their congregations.
As the community continues to heal, the bravery of Richard Pryor and Ron Amann will not be forgotten. Their actions serve as a powerful reminder of the strength of faith and fellowship in times of crisis. In a world where acts of violence seem all too common, the story of these two men stands out as a beacon of hope and courage.
For those interested in supporting the recovery efforts for Pryor and Amann, you can find the GoFundMe campaigns at this link for Deacon Pryor and this link for Ron Amann. Your contributions can make a significant difference in their recovery journey.