Double Shooting at CA Church, WA Man Ambushed, Shot, Leaving Church
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CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
Two Injured in Shooting at Chualar, CA Church; Suspects at Large
Two people were injured in a shooting early Sunday morning at St. Theodore's Catholic Pastoral Center in Chualar, California. The Monterey County Sheriff's Office reported that the victims were attending a gathering when shots were fired around 1 a.m. near Grant and Scott Streets. Both victims are expected to recover. While authorities believe there is no ongoing threat to the community, the suspects remain at large. Investigators are actively seeking information and surveillance footage, and anonymous tips can be provided by contacting Detective J. Perez at 755-5100.
Why was there a service at 1 AM? I don’t think that was a typo because I’ve seen it in a few other news reports. This whole shooting is suspicious. I am familiar with the area and there is a decent gang influence there.
Remembering the Sutherland Springs Church Tragedy
November 5 marked the seventh anniversary of the 2017 mass shooting at the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, where 26 worshippers, including a pregnant woman and her unborn child, were killed, and 22 others injured. The shooter, a former Air Force member with a history of domestic violence, exploited a failure in the background check system to obtain the firearm used in the attack. The tragedy prompted a $144.5 million settlement by the U.S. Department of Justice to victims’ families in 2023 and reignited debates on gun control and mental health. In August 2024, the church was demolished after years of controversy over its preservation, marking another chapter in the community’s ongoing healing process.
I did a video on the anniversary of the massacre. You can watch it, above, and learn my suggestions on how you can avert such a tragedy.
Auburn Man Ambushed and Shot Outside Church
An Auburn, Washington man was ambushed and shot outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Wednesday night while locking up the building. The attackers, described as two armed suspects, demanded the victim’s keys, assaulted him, and shot him twice in the torso before fleeing the scene. Despite his injuries, the man managed to walk to a nearby 7-Eleven for help and was taken to Harborview Medical Center in serious condition. His family expressed relief at his survival and called for stronger measures to address rising violence in the city. Auburn Police are seeking information about the suspects and encourage anyone with tips to call their tip line.
I’ve had two people try to rob me (both times I was working in plain clothes or undercover). Both crimes were averted because I practiced good situational awareness and I often practice something called “Tactical Visualization.” Here, I would think what would happen if somebody tried to rob me as I walked outside the church to lock it up? How I would react and how I would stop my attackers? I've practiced tactical visualization for decades, and it works. I'll be writing an article in the next few months on this very subject. In the meantime, keep your head up and if you see trouble coming, avoid it by going back inside and locking the doors. If you can't do that, just comply with what the people want until you have the tactical advantage to stop them.
Pastor of Solid Rock Church Arrested for Assault Amid Ongoing Controversy
In Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, the pastor of Solid Rock Church was arrested and charged with third-degree assault following an altercation with a protester near the church's Market Common location. The incident occurred amidst protests linked to the death of the pastor's wife earlier this year, which sparked allegations of abuse. Law enforcement remains involved as the case is under investigation. The church's property and assets, worth over $5 million, have been under scrutiny following an FBI search of the pastor’s home, which resulted in evidence seizures. Meanwhile, the pastor is reportedly pursuing a new religious organization, Living Water Church, and has applied for nonprofit status.
This church has been in the bulletin a few times. Protestors come every Sunday to protest the pastor, who they think killed his wife. Last week, the FBI did a raid on the church. Taking the issue with the wife’s death out of the equation, church’s can learn from issues arising out of this crisis. First amendment auditors are hitting churches hard right now by protesting at their front door step. Just ignore them. No good is going to come from contacting them. They will feed on your emotions to get you to do something you’ll regret and they will be there filming it. Just walk away and let the police handle it. Do have security on hand to keep your people from engaging them.
Man Arrested for Disturbance at Rhode Island Church Polling Site
A 33-year-old man was arrested for disorderly conduct at Maple Root Baptist Church in Coventry, Rhode Island, a registered polling location, on Election Day. Authorities responded to reports of the man disrupting voters and election staff by yelling obscenities. Despite police intervention, the suspect continued his behavior and was taken into custody. He is scheduled to be arraigned before a bail commissioner.
To be honest, I’m shocked this is the only story coming out of a polling site at a church. Thank the Lord that nothing else transpired. With that said, I think it is a wise idea that if you host a polling station AND have a school at your church, you should find an alternative for your students on election day. Many schools around the country give the kids a free day and teachers get a day to do admin on election day because of polling stations at schools.
Police Search for Suspect in Violent Attack at Baton Rouge Church
Authorities in Baton Rouge are searching for a 40-year-old man, William Breen III, accused of attacking an 81-year-old disabled man with chairs inside a church on Saturday night. Breen, who has a history of violent behavior, is wanted on charges including aggravated battery, cruelty to the infirm, vandalism, criminal damage to property, and aggravated burglary. Police are urging anyone with information on Breen’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-7867.
Columbia Falls Man Arrested After High-Speed Pursuit and Threats Against Churches
A 33-year-old man was taken into custody in Columbia Falls, Montana, after allegedly making violent threats and leading police on a high-speed chase. Daniel Balbas reportedly threatened to harm his ex-wife, her fiancé, family members, and to attack two local churches. Authorities attempted to apprehend him at his home, but Balbas fled, leading officers on a pursuit reaching speeds of 90 mph on Highway 2. A PIT maneuver successfully stopped his vehicle without injuries. Balbas is being held in Flathead County Detention Center on charges including assault with a weapon, criminal endangerment, intimidation, and fleeing law enforcement.
If you are one of the two churches, you need to get a restraining order against this man. I know it is just a piece of paper, but it leaves a paper trail protecting your church and your security team. If something were to happen, it protects your security team, showing that this man has a propensity for violence. You should also keep track of him and his court dates and monitor is online behavior. You should take these threats very seriously to protect your congregation. Many times, Christians like to think the person will never do anything. That's because of your good nature. I'm the realist that is going to let you know that many times these people follow through with their threats.
SEX CRIMES
Farwell Pastor Charged with Criminal Sexual Conduct
The pastor of Trinity Baptist Church in Farwell, Michigan, has been charged with second-degree criminal sexual conduct involving a child under 13. The alleged assault occurred in June 2021, and the victim, now residing out of state, reported the incident in March. Following an investigation, the pastor, aged 57, was arraigned on November 1 and released on bond with a tether. He is scheduled for a probable cause hearing on November 12 and a preliminary exam on November 18 in Clare County District Court. The church has not commented on the charges.
You absolutely have to comment on these charges. If you do not, someone else will comment and it will be someone that is not friendly to your church. Be transparent with your congregation and look for any additional victims. Call the churches he has worked at before and let them know what happened so they can look for victims at their church.
ARSON
Historic Columbus Church Damaged by Fire, Arson Investigation Underway
The 24th Street Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia, suffered significant damage from a fire on Friday night. Believed to have started near a trash can, the fire is under investigation for possible arson. Established in 1921 and moved to its current location in 1955, the church holds deep historical and personal significance for its congregation. No injuries were reported. Lead Pastor Curtis Green expressed optimism and faith in rebuilding efforts, while the congregation temporarily held services at a local hotel. Community members are asked for prayers and support during this challenging time.
Unfortunately, many arson start in dumpsters and trash containers. The fire then spreads to the building and destroys the building. Take a look at where you collect your trash and ask yourself. Is it secure and safe from arson? Arson is one of the leading crimes against churches in the United States. This is also your weekly reminder to get a fire alarm, a burglar alarm, and 4K video system for your church. If you can afford it, this is something you should have done long ago and should not put off any longer. I understand if your church cannot afford it, but for some churches, you have the money and leave your church open for destruction. This is a simple tool that will save your church.
Pasadena Man Faces Multiple Charges in Church Arson and Crime Spree
Michael Monzon, 32, of Alhambra, is set for a pretrial hearing in Pasadena Superior Court on charges stemming from a January 2024 crime spree. Monzon allegedly set fire to Dream Church, formerly Grace Korean Methodist Church, on January 19, causing minor damage. Two days later, he attempted an armed carjacking at a gas station on East Colorado Boulevard and set a second fire nearby. Authorities arrested him on unrelated charges days later and linked him to the incidents. Monzon faces multiple felony charges, including arson, burglary, and attempted carjacking. Investigators are still exploring potential motives for the arson attacks.
DRUG CRIMES
Wanted Man Arrested with Drugs at Missoula Church
A transient man with an outstanding warrant was arrested outside a church in Missoula, Montana, on October 31. Police were dispatched to remove the man, who was found near the church playground in a sleeping bag. The individual, identified as 43-year-old Ryan Wyatt, was discovered to have a $10,000 probation warrant. During processing at the jail, staff found a bag containing a substance suspected to be methamphetamine, which later tested positive during a preliminary test. Wyatt now faces felony charges for possession of dangerous drugs, and his bond remains set at $10,000.
If you minister to a transient population, drugs will be abundant in your area. I am in the studio right now doing a series of drug training classes for those of you that minister to the homeless. Stay tuned to the Christian Warrior Training newsletter and I'll put it out here first.
PROPERTY CRIMES
Two Women Sought for Fraud Involving Church and Charity in Louisiana
Authorities in Shreveport, Louisiana, are searching for two women accused of defrauding Christ Lutheran Church and the Providence House charity. The suspects, wanted on bank fraud charges, allegedly used fraudulent checks to exploit the organizations. One woman is accused of depositing a fake cashier's check for $4,193 using the Providence House’s name, despite having no connection to the charity. Both suspects are also accused of misusing the church's business account, writing fraudulent checks totaling over $13,700 between September 18-21. Police urge anyone with information to contact the Shreveport Police Department or Caddo Crime Stoppers.
Man Arrested After Stealing $30K in Equipment from Glendale Church
A man was arrested on November 5 after stealing a truck and trailer containing $30,000 worth of equipment from The Table Church in Glendale, Arizona. Surveillance footage captured the suspect, 44-year-old Edward Charles Gouer, driving a Chevy Trailblazer into the church parking lot and leaving with the stolen truck and trailer. An anonymous tip led detectives to recover the trailer and equipment at Gouer's home in Tonopah, though the Ford F-250 truck remains missing. Gouer, who claimed ignorance about the trailer’s presence at his residence, was arrested at a construction site. Police are urging anyone with information on the missing truck to contact them or Silent Witness.
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Church of England Covered Up Decades of Abuse at Summer Camps, Report Finds
An independent review revealed that the Church of England covered up decades of abuse perpetrated by John Smyth, a volunteer lawyer at Christian summer camps in the 1970s and 1980s. Smyth abused approximately 30 boys and young men in the UK and 85 in Africa through extreme physical, sexual, psychological, and spiritual abuse, including brutal beatings for perceived sins. A secret 1982 report documented the abuse, but police were never notified, and Smyth was allowed to relocate to Zimbabwe with church financial assistance. In 2013, church leaders, including Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, failed to report Smyth after learning of the allegations, potentially missing the opportunity to bring him to justice before his death in 2018. The church has since apologized, acknowledging systemic failures to protect victims and prevent further abuse.
I don’t understand how churches can hide severe crimes like this. The bible is clear about justice. If you find wrongdoing like this in your church, you must immediately bring it to the open and start bringing justice to the victims. Be clear and transparent with your congregation. It is hard, but it is what we are commanded to do.
Catholic Priest Kidnapped in Nigeria Amid Rising Violence
Father Emmanuel Azubuike, a parish priest in the Okigwe Diocese of Nigeria, was abducted while traveling home in Imo State, a predominantly Christian region. This incident adds to a troubling trend of clergy kidnappings in the country, including several recent cases. Nigerian authorities are investigating and have launched efforts to secure his release. The ongoing violence in Nigeria, fueled by terrorist groups and ransom-seeking criminals, has targeted religious leaders and civilians alike. Church leaders have urged stronger action, with President Bola Tinubu recently designating kidnappings as acts of terrorism.
Christians Kidnapped in Fulani Herdsmen Attacks on Nigerian Villages
On November 1, Fulani herdsmen abducted four Christians working on farms in two predominantly Christian villages, Mai-Iddo and Arikon, in Kaduna State, Nigeria. This marks the second such attack in Mai-Iddo in two months, with an earlier incident involving the abduction of four women and a child. Previous kidnappings in the region this year include seven Christian girls and women in May, as well as multiple assaults in April that left one Christian dead and others kidnapped. Nigeria remains the deadliest country for Christians, with over 4,000 killed for their faith from 2022 to 2023 and more than 3,300 kidnappings reported. Authorities are investigating and working to combat the persistent violence targeting Christian communities.
Great content Keith, thank you for always keeping us in the loop, much appreciated.