Man Lights Himself on Fire in Front of Church, Active Shooter Averted at Christian School
Table of Contents
TERRORISM UPDATE
ATF Boston Urges Security at Religious Institutions After Rise in Arson Cases
Houston Man Arrested for ISIS Support and Terror Plot
CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
Deadly Shooting Outside West Fargo Church Ruled Self-Defense
Man Killed in Shooting Near Boynton Beach Church
Safety Concerns Raised After Incident at Azle Christian and Public Schools
Pastor of Wright Baptist Church Requests Law Enforcement After Threats
Man Arrested for Disrupting Service at West Rome Baptist Church
SEX CRIMES
Pastor of Baptist Church in Lynchburg Charged with Sexual Assault
Founder, Former Pastor of Columbus Church Charged with Rape of Minor Under 10
Family Sues First Baptist Dallas Over Allegations of Negligence
ARSON
Homeless Man Dies After Setting Himself on Fire Outside NYC Church
Authorities Investigate Suspected Arson at Historic Monroe County Church
Fire Damages Watts Church; LAFD Arson Unit Investigating
PROPERTY CRIME
Toilet Stolen from Memphis Church
Texas Episcopal Priest Charged with Financial Fraud and Mismanagement
Leadership Dispute at Alaska Church Escalates Amid Accusations of Misconduct
Police K9 Captures Suspect in South Nashville Church Burglary
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Two Minors Fatally Shot Near Catholic Church in Mexico
Catholic Communities Worldwide Reeling from Violent Attacks on Priests
Anti-Christian Incidents and Discrimination Rising Across Europe
TERRORISM UPDATE
ATF Boston Urges Security at Religious Institutions After Rise in Arson Cases
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is urging houses of worship in New England to enhance security measures following a spike in arson incidents. Recent cases include a suspected arson at a church in Franklin, Massachusetts, on October 23, and vandalism involving the burning of Pride and Black Lives Matter flags at a Kingston church in July. An incident in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, is also under investigation. The ATF recommends upgrading surveillance systems, restricting facility access, increasing engagement with law enforcement, and raising awareness among congregants. Religious institutions are advised to review emergency plans and report suspicious activity. Community leaders can contact the ATF via their 24-hour hotline at 1-888-ATF-FIRE or the Arson Watch Reward Program at 1-800-682-9229 for further assistance.
Well, it is nice for the federal government to catch up to our warnings here at Christian Warrior Training. Seriously, though, the federal government is doing next to nothing to help protect us, even though they know that we are at a SEVERE risk of attack. Their best response so far is a localized alert that probably did not reach all churches. Check out my video, above, for more information.
Houston Man Arrested for ISIS Support and Terror Plot
The FBI has arrested 28-year-old Anas Said from Houston, Texas, for attempting to provide material support to ISIS and planning terror attacks, including a "9/11-style" attack. Said admitted to researching explosives, targeting local military recruiting centers, and planning violence against a Houston-based Jewish organization. He also produced ISIS propaganda and communicated with the group's media outlets. Investigators revealed that Said previously offered housing to individuals involved in a plot to kill former President George W. Bush, though the attempt failed. His radicalization was reportedly influenced by the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel. Said faces federal charges, and his arrest was captured on video during an FBI operation on November 8, 2024.
This is just a reminder of why we are at SEVERE until Jan 21. Just be aware that we are in a critical time for a terror attack.
CRIMES AGAINST PERSONS
Deadly Shooting Outside West Fargo Church Ruled Self-Defense
Police in West Fargo, North Dakota, have released footage of an August incident where 25-year-old Austin Strom was fatally shot in the parking lot of Prairie Heights Church. The shooting occurred during an altercation in which Strom was reportedly assaulting 66-year-old Kent Hodges, who has dementia. Don Barron, a teacher, intervened and fired a single shot after commanding Strom to stop. Video evidence shows Barron retreating as Strom approached with hands raised, and the shooting has been ruled an act of self-defense. No charges will be filed, but the victim’s family has expressed frustration and grief, vowing to seek further clarity.
Watch the video above to see the incident unfold and to get my analysis of how it all went down.
Man Killed in Shooting Near Boynton Beach Church
Boynton Beach police are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred near the New Disciples Worship Center in Boynton Beach, Florida, on November 15, 2024. Officers responded to the scene near Northeast Second Street and Northeast 12th Avenue around 1:45 p.m., where they found the victim, who was pronounced dead by emergency responders. Witnesses reported hearing gunfire, and police stated the incident involved an altercation between two men. A person of interest has been identified, but no arrests have been made as the investigation continues.
People in trouble often flee to a nearby church. It is instinctual that you will find safety and sanctuary there. You must prepare your safety team for incidents like this. My recommendation is to lock your church down immediately and call 911. When the gunfire is over, if it is safe to do so, deliver aid to the victim and provide any information needed to responding police officers.
Safety Concerns Raised After Incident at Azle Christian and Public Schools
Azle Christian School in Texas reported an incident in late September where Alan Thompson approached its gym door but left after being confronted by staff. The school confirmed strong security measures, including daily armed guards and cooperation with law enforcement. Weeks later, Thompson was arrested after admitting to hearing voices telling him to commit violence at Azle Christian and Silver Creek Elementary. Parents in Azle ISD have criticized the public school district for delays in sharing information, with some staff reportedly unaware of the threat until weeks after his arrest. District officials stated that limited details initially prevented broader disclosure, emphasizing their ongoing safety protocols and commitment to transparency.
A perfect example of how properly trained and deployed security can stop an incident from happening. It is important to share information like this to all possibly affected entities, like schools and churches. This is why you should create an intelligence group for churches in your area to quickly share information across the are quickly.
Pastor of Wright Baptist Church Requests Law Enforcement After Threats
The pastor of Wright Baptist Church in Wyoming contacted deputies after receiving a threatening voicemail from a 72-year-old congregation member. The message reportedly stated the man intended to "go after him," though specifics were not detailed in the deputy’s report. The individual had previously disrupted services, but the nature of these incidents remains unclear. Law enforcement was asked to attend a 6 p.m. service for security, but the service was canceled before deputies could arrive. The situation remains under investigation.
It is super important that you communicate with other churches in your area. We can alert all of the churches in our area quickly to let them know that we are having a problem with a specific person. This keeps all of us safe. In this incident, I would alert other churches so they can be on the lookout for him for when he decides he wants to go to a new church.
Man Arrested for Disrupting Service at West Rome Baptist Church
A 53-year-old man was arrested at West Rome Baptist Church in Rome, Georgia, for causing a disturbance during a church service. Authorities report that the individual acted loudly and blocked the entrance to the children’s ministry, refusing to leave when asked. The man has been charged with disorderly conduct under city ordinances.
This is a common crime in churches. I suggest putting this type of scenario in your reality based (scenario) training. Work with your team on developing a standard operating procedure and find out what works best for your church.
SEX CRIMES
Pastor of Baptist Church in Lynchburg Charged with Sexual Assault
A pastor from First Baptist Church of South Lynchburg in Lynchburg, Virginia, has been charged with felony rape following allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman in August 2024. According to court documents, the victim reported that the pastor forced her into his car at a restaurant and took her to a home in Madison Heights, where the assault occurred before driving her back to Lynchburg. Investigators linked a rental car to the suspect using surveillance footage, and the victim identified him in a photo lineup. The pastor continued to preside over church services until late October, and his trial is scheduled for January in Amherst County court.
Founder, former pastor of Columbus church charged with rape of minor under 10
The 72-year-old former pastor of Anchor Baptist Church in Columbus, Ohio, has been charged with multiple serious offenses involving a minor under the age of 10. Authorities allege the incidents took place between 2021 and June 2024 and did not involve a member of the church. The pastor, who founded the church in 1989, resigned in June 2024 for personal reasons. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and was released on a $20,000 recognizance bond. Anchor Baptist Church has stated they are fully cooperating with law enforcement and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and upholding both legal and moral standards.
Can we all agree that a $20,000 bond for child rape is ridiculously low? Look, in offenses like this, there are usually multiple victims going back decades. I recommend that if this is your church or this guy ever served at your church, to start looking for victims for the time period he worked there. You need to reach out and offer services for the victims and help them contact police if they wish.
Family Sues First Baptist Dallas Over Allegations of Negligence
A family in North Texas has filed a lawsuit against First Baptist Dallas, alleging their son, then in eighth grade, experienced inappropriate conduct by an older teen during a 2022 mission trip to San Diego. The lawsuit claims the church failed to act on prior reports involving the same older teen and did not have a formal policy for reporting such allegations. First Baptist Dallas denies the claims, stating that the incident was reported to law enforcement, who determined no crime had occurred. The lawsuit seeks over $1 million in damages, citing negligence and emotional distress.
EVERY church needs a Comprehensive Child and Youth Protection Policy. If you do not have one, you are allowing the chance of a sexual assault to happen and you are leaving yourself open to huge levies in a lawsuit. I recommend two people to help you develop a policy for your church:
Mike Elerick at Church Safety and Security 101
Jeff Kearnan at Kearnan Consulting
ARSON
Homeless Man Dies After Setting Himself on Fire Outside NYC Church
A 48-year-old man, believed to be homeless, died after setting himself on fire early Tuesday morning on the steps of St. George’s Episcopal Church in Manhattan. The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. at East 16th Street and Rutherford Place, shocking witnesses who described the man’s calm demeanor as the flames grew. Despite immediate response from emergency services, the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been released, and the motive remains unclear as police continue their investigation.
If someone is on fire, get the to stop, drop and roll. Grab a fire extinguisher or a garden hose and start putting them out. If they set themselves on fire, expect that they will be combative with you.
Read the full story here.
Authorities Investigate Suspected Arson at Historic Monroe County Church
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fire at a historic church on North Harmony Road, suspected to be an act of arson. The fire occurred late at night on November 8, prompting a call for public assistance. Authorities are encouraging anyone with information to contact Investigator Sloan or submit tips anonymously through the Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers Tip Line. Rewards are being offered for information leading to an arrest. The investigation remains ongoing.
This is your reminder to get a fire/burglar alarm for your church. It should be a priority.
Fire Damages Watts Church; LAFD Arson Unit Investigating
A fire broke out early Wednesday morning at True Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. Firefighters responded to the blaze at 10424 South Graham Avenue around 5 a.m., quickly extinguishing the flames in under 20 minutes. No injuries were reported, and the church was unoccupied at the time. The Los Angeles Fire Department’s Arson Unit is investigating the cause, following standard protocol for fires involving houses of worship.
PROPERTY CRIME
Toilet Stolen from Memphis Church
Greater New Hope Baptist Church in South Memphis was burglarized over the weekend, leaving the building in disarray. Thieves ripped off a side door, stole speakers from the sanctuary, and ransacked the pastor's office—taking even the toilet. Pastor Gregory Harris described the break-in as a violation, noting the intruders searched every corner of the church, including children's belongings. Despite the destruction, the church held Sunday service as planned, with Harris urging resilience. Memphis police are investigating the incident, and no arrests have been made.
I can’t say I ever handled a call where someone stole a toilet. Only in Memphis (sorry Memphis, but it is what it is). This is also your weekly reminder that you need a burglar alarm, a fire alarm and a 4k video system.
Texas Episcopal Priest Charged with Financial Fraud and Mismanagement
Rev. Canon Edward R. Monk, rector of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Corsicana, Texas, and former chairman of Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Wisconsin, has been charged by the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas with fraud and mismanagement. Allegations include issuing undocumented checks, opening unauthorized bank accounts, misusing a volunteer treasurer’s personal information for a multi-year spending spree, and soliciting funds under false pretenses. Monk denies all charges, citing restricted access to potential exculpatory evidence. He was placed on administrative leave in August 2024, and a church trial is set for February 2025. No criminal charges have been filed by local authorities.
This is a good reminder to read my article on securing your church finances so that this doesn’t happen to you.
Leadership Dispute at Alaska Church Escalates Amid Accusations of Misconduct
A leadership conflict at Resurrection Lutheran Church in Juneau, Alaska, has intensified with allegations of theft, assault, and financial mismanagement as two factions vie for control. The dispute began with a lawsuit filed in July, questioning the legitimacy of meetings that ousted former pastor Karen Perkins and congregation president Karen Lawfer. Allegations from Lawfer’s group include assault of a Native Alaskan volunteer, unauthorized withdrawal of $200,000 from church accounts, and sabotage of church property. The opposing faction denies these claims, accusing Lawfer and Perkins of mismanaging funds and undermining the church’s operations. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has sided against Lawfer’s group, supporting the removal of Perkins. While church activities, including a vital food pantry, continue, members express concern over the growing divide and its impact on the congregation.
I’m always shocked at church infighting. I just don’t understand how people can be that way in church. Remember, people don’t go to church because of the people that do go to church.
Police K9 Captures Suspect in South Nashville Church Burglary
A 54-year-old man, Greg Edgar Black, was apprehended inside Centro Cristiano Para La Familia church in South Nashville after breaking in by dismantling metal siding and drywall. Police were alerted to the burglary on Wilhagen Road and deployed a K9 unit after Black refused to surrender. The K9 found Black hiding in a closet, where he unsuccessfully tried to fend off the dog with a backpack. Items stolen from the church, including a laptop, camera, and food, were recovered from his bag, along with drug paraphernalia. Black, a former convict, was treated for a dog bite before being booked into the Downtown Detention Center on burglary and theft charges.
INTERNATIONAL STORIES
Two Minors Fatally Shot Near Catholic Church in Mexico
Two brothers, reportedly involved in parish activities, were shot and killed on November 9 near Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Entabladero, Veracruz, Mexico. The crime, which occurred in a nearby plaza rather than inside the church, has prompted calls for justice and peace from the Diocese of Papantla. Local reports indicate one victim served as an altar boy, while the other participated in youth group activities and assisted with church upkeep. Authorities in Veracruz are investigating the case, vowing to ensure accountability. Church leaders urged prayers for the victims' families and for peace in the region.
Up until a few months ago, I put out a newsletter for narcotics investigators on cartel crime. Cartels used to leave Christians alone in their drug war. Those times are over. They have been killing Christians that get in their way, which was forbidden just a few years ago. Many of my friends travel to Mexico on missions. Please be careful.
Catholic Communities Worldwide Reeling from Violent Attacks on Priests
Catholic communities in Singapore, Spain, and Poland are grappling with shock and grief following three violent attacks on priests. In Singapore, Father Christopher Lee was stabbed during Mass on November 9 at St. Joseph Church in Bukit Timah, sustaining facial injuries. The attacker was subdued and has been charged with causing grievous hurt. In Spain, Franciscan friar Juan Antonio Llorente died from injuries sustained in a November 9 attack on the Gilet monastery in Valencia, where seven others were wounded by an assailant claiming to be "Jesus Christ." In Poland, Father Lech Lachowicz succumbed to brain injuries on November 9 after being attacked with an ax in his rectory on November 3. These incidents coincide with a broader rise in violence against Christians, highlighted by a recent report showing a 44% increase in hate crimes across Europe. Church leaders have called for unity, vigilance, and continued prayer for persecuted communities.
I have noticed an uptick in violence towards Catholics in the past months. Why? It could be because they are the largest Christian deonomination which makes it seem like they are attacked more. Or, it could be an easy target for crazy people and jihadis after the 10/7 attack on Israel and the call from ISIS to attack Christians. Either way, you should all keep your head on a swivel.
Anti-Christian Incidents and Discrimination Rising Across Europe
Attacks and discrimination against Christians in Europe have surged, with 2,444 anti-Christian hate crimes reported in 35 countries in 2023, including 232 personal attacks, according to a report by the Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians in Europe (OIDAC). Countries like Germany, France, and the UK have seen significant increases in violence, workplace discrimination, and restrictions on public expressions of faith. The report highlights legal and social pressures, such as fines for silent prayer near abortion clinics and workplace hostility toward Christian beliefs, leading many to self-censor. OIDAC attributes this trend to an increasingly secular agenda that marginalizes traditional religious values, urging vigilance to protect religious freedom and expression in democratic societies.
NEVER self censor! Remember Acts 2:46-47: "Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people." Never be afraid to proclaim your faith. We all know where we are going.
Just discovered you today (11/18/24) on YouTube, purchased a subscription and one of you awesome T-shirts, catching up on all your videos and have been sharing your ministry with others, including other church security teams and my pastor and his wife. I believe is supporting Christian ministries that are essential to the Church, especially in today's global society. Next, I will be reaching out to churches and synagogues in other countries who are at a much higher risk than we are in the USA, like our Messianic Jewish brothers and sisters. Many of us are veterans, but there are differences between police and military experiences that when combined can provide a wealth of information. Thank you and I truly believe in what you are doing. God Bless!
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