TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

In a dramatic turn of events Thursday morning, a church burglary attempt at a U.S. church was stopped by the pastor after the man used an ax to gain entry.

Pastor Nick Neves responded to a security alarm and discovered a broken window at the First Family Church in Antioch, California. Upon investigating, he encountered an intruder attempting to steal items from the building.

Drawing on his martial arts training, Neves confronted the suspect who chose to fight rather than surrender. The pastor successfully subdued the individual and held him until local law enforcement arrived.

Antioch Police officers quickly responded to the scene. They arrested the suspect and charged him with multiple offenses, including burglary, robbery, and battery.

Preliminary assessments indicate property damage to the church building at approximately $3,000. The incident highlights the unexpected challenges faced by community institutions.

Antioch Police shared details about the incident on the department’s Facebook page, emphasizing the quick thinking and physical preparedness of the pastor in protecting church property.