Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
In a powerful interview aired by WXYZ Detroit, Jay Trombley—church member and trained volunteer security guard—recounted the moment he stopped what could’ve been a horrific mass shooting at Crosspointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan.
On Sunday morning, chaos erupted when 31-year-old Brian Browning arrived at the church armed with a rifle and handgun. Browning reportedly opened fire outside the building, with rounds striking the facility. But thanks to a mix of planning, instinct, and courage, lives were saved.
Trombley, part of the church’s safety team, sprang into action after hearing a noise that initially sounded mechanical. As panicked parishioners fled, one shouted “AR-15,” and pointed. Trombley didn’t hesitate—he moved toward the threat.
Another church member hit the gunman with his truck, slowing him down. Trombley and at least one other armed staff member engaged the shooter before he could enter the building. Browning was shot and killed outside the church.
“A double-pane window stopped five rounds that I’m fairly certain where I was standing… To look at the wall behind me… To see the impacts… To see that were rounds from his rifle, traveled and impacted… God’s hand was protecting me,” he told the news station.
SEE ALSO: Churchgoers Stop Would-Be Mass Shooter in Michigan
Trombley and other volunteers had trained for years to respond to exactly this kind of nightmare scenario, despite not having military or law enforcement backgrounds. “You are your own first responder,” he said, underscoring the importance of preparation.
While he acknowledged the emotional toll, Trombley didn’t call himself a hero. “I realize what happened yesterday. What my actions… I will reconcile with… Time for that. You know, I’m—I was protecting his people.”
Crosspointe’s decision to build a trained volunteer security team proved vital. Their readiness prevented a tragedy and highlighted what many in the Second Amendment community have long asserted: armed citizens save lives.
As for Trombley, he closed the interview with a quiet truth.
“The one thing always has been in the back of my mind—the question: if I hear that noise, will I run to it? Will I run from it? I answered that question yesterday,” he said.
*** Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica! ***
Available on GunsAmerica Now
is a seasoned outdoorsman, lifelong hunter, and the kind of guy who’d rather track whitetails than scroll social media. As an editor for GunsAmerica, he’s got a sharp eye for spotting both solid gear and bad gun laws. Whether he’s deep in the woods or deep in editorial deadlines, Larry brings a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is approach to firearms, hunting, and the great American tradition of self-reliance. If there’s a hot debate on gun rights or the latest in hunting tech, you can bet Larry’s got an opinion—and it’s probably backed up with both facts and field experience.
Experience:
– Licensed Bowhunter, Hunter, and Trapper – Experienced in ethical hunting and wildlife conservation.
– Concealed Carry Permit Holder (NYS & AZ) – Trained and licensed to carry in multiple states.
– 2A Journalist – Covering firearms legislation, Second Amendment issues, and gun rights for over a decade.
– Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Certified to provide emergency medical care in the field.
– Field-Tested Gear Reviewer – Hands-on experience with firearms, optics, and hunting tech.
Sir, you have nothing to ‘reconcile’ with GOD. You were HIS truth Sayer – ‘live by the sword, die by the sword’. You were there because GOD put you there to protect His flock. Do not loose one second of sleep over this! No greater gift can a man give than his life to protect another. You did that – and by GODS’ grace – survived it! Bless you! 🙏🙏
Good for the reporter, too, for mentioning the “security team” was made of ordinary people with training.
A definition of a hero is one who runs towards danger when everyone else is running away. It takes courage to take up a firearm and defend your family, friends and community.
SFMF!
that congregation is now truly saved.
Kudos to all the Churches that support CC in their buildings, too bad for the vulnerable, faithful that are NOT trusted by their own congregation’s hierarchy.