A man who attempted to kill a pastor during a live-streamed church service in Pennsylvania is facing a hefty sentence.
The 27-year-old man, who has also been charged with third-degree murder for shooting and killing his cousin, could face up to 60 years in prison.
In May 2024, Pastor Glenn Germany was speaking at Jesus' Dwelling Place Church in North Braddock when the 27-year-old suspect approached the stage, pulled out a gun, and attempted to take the life of the pastor.
"I just saw a gun pointing right at me," said the pastor in an interview with Churchleaders. "All I could try to do was run for cover behind the pulpit."
The attacker was smiling at the pastor when he approached him, according to Germany. While the man pulled the trigger with the intent to kill the pastor, the gun jammed.
A deacon, who was also working as a cameraman at the church, saw what was happening and tackled the gunman and disarmed him.
"I put his arms to his sides so he couldn’t move, turned him around, and sat him down,” said Clarence McCallister.
Thanks to his actions, McCalister later received the Fox Nation Patriot Award for bravery in December 2024.
"Without the courage of God, I could not have done it," said McCallister.
The 27-year-old suspect has pleaded guilty but mentally ill and is now facing 20 years for attempting to shoot the pastor and another 15 to 40 years for the murder of his cousin, who officials believe he killed the same morning he acted out in the church.
Pastor Germany says he has forgiven the culprit and is thankful to close this chapter of his life.
With files from Sylvia St. Cyr