By Quick-thinking churchgoers in Abbeville, Louisiana, prevented a 16-year-old armed with a rifle from entering St. Mary Magdalen Church during a live-streamed service on Saturday, authorities reported. The incident occurred while approximately 60 children were inside the Catholic church, waiting to take their first Holy Communion.
According to a statement from the church, the suspect attempted to gain entry through the back door at around 10:35 a.m. Parishioners confronted the teen, escorted him outside, and promptly called the police.
A recording of the live-streamed service, aired by several local news stations, captured the moment when a man approached Rev. Nicholas DuPré 48 minutes into the service to whisper something. DuPré then halted the service, asking the congregation to join him in prayer as panic spread and some began to scream.
The video showed police officers moving through the church while boys ran across the altar and clergy sought shelter. An announcement over the loudspeaker stated, “Guys, just get ahold of your children, go slowly. We did apprehend a child; he is in custody.”
Abbeville Police Chief Mike Hardy confirmed in a Facebook statement that the suspect was “confronted by parishioners and escorted outside” before being taken into custody by responding officers. The church was then swept to ensure there were no further threats or injuries.
The suspect, who witnesses described as dressed all in black and carrying a rifle, was arrested and charged with terrorizing the church and two counts of possession of a firearm by a juvenile. He was questioned at the Abbeville Police Department with a parent present before being transferred to Abbeville General Hospital’s behavioral unit for evaluation.
Police commended the brave actions of the church congregation. Chief Hardy expressed gratitude to the “clergy and parishioners of St Mary Magdalen Church for their quick response and remaining calm throughout this matter.” He also acknowledged the assistance of the FBI and the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office in the ongoing investigation.
Despite the disruption, the communion event proceeded, with the church expressing joy for the children who received their first Holy Communion. In a statement released by the Catholic Diocese of Lafayette, the church thanked police and parishioners for their swift response, stating, “While we realize this was a frightening experience for those in attendance, we are incredibly grateful to both parishioners and police officers for acting quickly to ensure the safety of all.”
As a precautionary measure, the church plans to have uniformed law enforcement officers present outside its Masses going forward. However, they encouraged anyone seeking a first Holy Communion to attend the next available Mass.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and quick action in the face of potential threats, even in places of worship. The bravery and composure demonstrated by the parishioners and clergy of St. Mary Magdalen Church undoubtedly prevented what could have been a tragic situation.
