- July 11, 2025
- Criminal Defense
A Sunday Morning Shooting Averted a Potential Mass Tragedy
On June 23, 2025, a potential mass shooting was narrowly avoided in Wayne, Michigan, after a man armed with a rifle and handgun opened fire outside CrossPointe Community Church. According to police, the man was wearing a tactical vest and began firing as he approached the building.
Inside, nearly 150 people were taking part in the service as the gunman approached.
One churchgoer was shot in the leg, and chaos ensued as parishioners scrambled to respond. In a remarkable act of bravery, a member of the church struck the suspect with a pickup truck, buying enough time for two church staff members to shoot and kill the gunman. Police later confirmed that the gunman had previously attended the church and that his mother was a member of the congregation. His motive is still under investigation, but authorities believe he was experiencing a mental health crisis.
Was the Use of Deadly Force Justified?
Under Michigan law, individuals are allowed to use deadly force in self-defense or defense of others when they honestly and reasonably believe it is necessary to prevent imminent death, great bodily harm, or sexual assault. This is covered under Michigan’s Self-Defense Act (MCL § 780.972).
The law also includes “stand your ground” protections—meaning there is no duty to retreat if you are somewhere you have a legal right to be, such as a church, your home, or a place of employment.
In this case, the gunman was already firing at the building and had injured one person. The use of deadly force by the church staff appears—based on initial reports—to fall squarely within Michigan’s legal definition of a justifiable use of force.
Legal Protections for Those Who Stop an Active Shooter
Michigan law does not require you to wait until someone is physically harmed before acting in self-defense. If a person is posing an active and immediate threat to others—such as brandishing or firing a weapon— lethal force may be justified.
This includes:
- Shooting to stop an armed individual actively attacking others
- Intervening to protect a crowd or congregation under immediate threat
- Acting without retreat when lawfully inside a location
Importantly, the intent and perception of the defender matter. They must honestly and reasonably believe that the use of deadly force was necessary to stop the threat.
What Happens After a Defensive Shooting?
Even in cases that appear clearly justified, those involved in a self-defense shooting should expect a full investigation. Police will:
- Secure and search the scene
- Take statements from witnesses
- Interview the person who used deadly force
- Collect ballistic and forensic evidence
In some cases, a prosecutor may need to formally determine whether criminal charges are appropriate—even if self-defense is obvious.
That’s why anyone involved in a defensive shooting should immediately contact a criminal defense attorney —even if they believe they did everything right.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Michigan’s “Stand Your Ground” law?
A: Michigan law allows individuals to use deadly force without retreating if they are in a place they have a legal right to be and honestly and reasonably believe deadly force is immediately necessary to stop an imminent threat.
Q: Can deadly force be used to protect others, not just yourself?
A: Yes. Michigan law permits the use of deadly force in defense of another person if the threat to that person’s life is imminent.
Q: Will there still be an investigation if it’s clearly self-defense?
A: Yes. Law enforcement will always investigate shootings involving fatalities. However, if the facts support lawful self-defense, criminal charges may be avoided.
Q: What should I do if I’m involved in a shooting, even if I acted to protect others?
A: Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not answer questions without legal representation. A good lawyer will help you navigate the investigation and protect your rights.
About Attorney John Freeman
Attorney John Freeman is a former federal and state prosecutor with over 30 years of experience in criminal law. Based in Troy, Michigan, he has handled some of the state’s most serious cases, including self-defense shootings, firearm charges, and violent crime allegations. His unique insight into how law enforcement and prosecutors build cases gives his clients a critical advantage when everything is on the line.
Contact the Law Office of John Freeman
If you’ve been involved in a shooting or are under investigation for using deadly force— even in a justifiable situation —you need experienced legal representation.
At the Law Office of John Freeman, we help clients across Michigan protect their freedom and assert their rights in complex, high-stakes cases.
📍 Troy, Michigan
📞 Call today for a confidential consultation