The pastor and members of the congregation of an Alabama church are being hailed as heroes after wrestling a gun away from a man who opened fire during a Sunday-morning service, CBS News and the Associated Press report.
James Junior Minter was arrested and is being held without bond after reportedly shooting his girlfriend, his infant son and Earl Carlswell, the pastor of the Oasis Tabernacle Church in East Selma, who had tried to intervene during the shooting.
"A whole lot more people could have been shot," District Attorney Michael Jackson said, according to the report. "They all played a heroic role."
Minter was reportedly seated at the front of the church, between his girlfriend and the 1-month-old, when he pulled out a handgun and started shooting. The 24-year-old woman was hit in the jaw and the shoulder, while the baby was hit in the hand. Carswell, 61, grabbed Minter and was shot in the leg before other members of the congregation helped subdue the 26-year-old and get the gun away from him.
All of the victims are in stable condition, CBS and AP note.
Minter tried to run away but was soon captured by officers. Police believe that he was upset about a recent breakup and matters pertaining to visitation with his son. He is charged with three counts of attempted murder but could face additional charges.
Read more at CBS News.