Church Gunman’s Troubling Journey Unfolds
In a distressing series of events in North Braddock, Pennsylvania, a 26-year-old man, Bernard Junior Polite, faces severe charges of criminal homicide following the tragic discovery of his cousin, Derek Polite, 56, found deceased in their shared residence. Newsweek reported that the grim scene unfolded hours before Bernard attempted to harm a local pastor, Reverend Glenn Germany, during a live church service at Jesus’ Dwelling Place Church.
Allegheny County Police responded to a call at the North Braddock residence, where Derek was discovered deceased, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head. The authorities, ruling the manner of death as a homicide after conducting an autopsy, were aided by neighbors who provided crucial information, including hearing suspicious noises, potentially gunshots, around 10 a.m. that day.
Later in the day, Bernard Polite disrupted Pastor Germany’s church service, which was being livestreamed, as he attempted to harm the pastor. Despite his efforts, his firearm malfunctioned, failing to discharge. Deacon Clarence McCallister bravely intervened, aided by Pastor Germany, swiftly subduing Bernard until law enforcement arrived, preventing a potential tragedy.
Following Bernard’s arrest, concerned family members, upon witnessing the news coverage, discovered Derek Polite’s lifeless body, leading to a grim realization of the interconnected violence. Further investigations linked the firearm recovered from Bernard to the fatal shot that claimed Derek’s life, solidifying the connection between the two heinous acts.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Pastor Germany expressed shock at the news of Derek Polite’s murder, acknowledging the peril he narrowly escaped. Bernard Polite, having no prior affiliation with the church or Pastor Germany, now faces multiple charges, including homicide, aggravated assault, and endangerment.
Despite the trauma endured by the church community, Pastor Germany highlighted a newfound sense of solidarity and support among its members. He emphasized how the incident has strengthened their bonds, fostering resilience in the face of adversity.
Recalling the harrowing moments of the attack, Pastor Germany praised Deacon McCallister’s bravery, describing him as a hero for his decisive actions during the crisis. McCallister, who operated the cameras during the service’s livestream, expressed relief that no physical harm befell anyone, grateful that Pastor Germany evaded harm and that the firearm malfunctioned, preventing further tragedy.