By Paul Joseph
A 23-year-old Texas man was stopped by a church security guard before he could allegedly carry out an attack during a Houston church service, authorities said.
Emmanuel Ahsono Mbwavi was charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after police said he brought a loaded .22-caliber revolver and more than 100 rounds of ammunition to Eden Church on March 15.
Court documents show Mbwavi had previously been asked to leave the church property after attempting to distribute “concerning” flyers.
Church officials asked the security team to monitor him when he returned for Sunday services at the Post Entertainment Center in downtown Houston.
According to police, a security guard noticed Mbwavi repeatedly following a pastor into the bathroom and carrying a backpack. Mbwavi allegedly reached for his gun while speaking to a pastor, prompting the guard to tackle him. Members of the congregation assisted in restraining him.
Authorities said Mbwavi appeared to be counting down on his cellphone, leading the guard to fear he might detonate a bomb. While restrained, Mbwavi reportedly shouted threats toward the church’s pastor and identified himself as “a prophet called Warlock.”
Police recovered the loaded revolver along with over 100 rounds of ammunition from his backpack. Mbwavi’s cellphone allegedly contained notes about harming the pastor.
Houston police continue to investigate the incident.
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