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Wayne leaders praise first responders after Crosspoint Church shooting; council urges mental-health outreach
Summary
Council members at the July 1 Wayne City Council meeting praised police, fire and volunteers for their response to a recent shooting at Crosspoint Church, described as a narrowly avoided tragedy. Leaders urged residents to use available mental-health resources and highlighted security reviews at local houses of worship.
Council members at Wayne's July 1 meeting commended police, fire and other responders for their actions after a shooting at Crosspoint Church last Sunday and urged residents to seek help if they are struggling with mental health.
Multiple council members described the incident as both a tragedy and a miracle. "It could have been a lot worse," Councilman Darwish said, thanking first responders and volunteers who intervened during the incident. Councilman Dowd described rapid community response and recounted accounts of individuals who helped stop the attacker, saying those actions likely prevented further harm.
Council members said no parishioners were seriously injured in the incident; one speaker referred to injuries affecting the shooter. Officials praised the Wayne Police Department's scene management and its decision to check on other houses of worship when the event was unfolding. "They were quickly on the scene and quickly took control of the scene and assisted everybody," Councilman Dowd said.
Several speakers noted the emotional toll on congregants and commended efforts by neighboring churches and organizations to provide space, food and counseling. Councilwoman Was said pastors and congregations have urged forgiveness and community healing. Mayor Pro Tem Brock and others reminded residents that local hospitals, social workers, and faith leaders are available to help those struggling with mental-health concerns.
Council members also warned about community safety more broadly: one member recommended that residents and organizations keep naloxone (Narcan) on hand after county briefings about fentanyl and related overdoses, and police said they would continue to work with congregations on security planning. No policy actions or ordinances were proposed at the meeting; council members asked administrators to continue coordinating support and information for affected residents and faith communities.
