ARMED MAN WITH EXPLOSIVES IS ARRESTED

Quick action by Jacksonville Police prevented what could have been a tragedy. Thanks to a tip from a woman who feared for her safety, a heavily armed man was arrested in possession of multiple firearms, ammunition, explosives and tactical gear.

A CALL THAT PREVENTED A CATASTROPHE

On Saturday, February 8, a woman called police alerting them that she was being followed by a man against whom she had a protection order. With the information provided, officers located the suspect in his vehicle and conducted a stop in the parking lot of O’Reilly’s on Pelham Road South.

What initially seemed like a simple routine stop quickly turned into a high-risk operation when officers searched the suspect’s vehicle.

A DEADLY ARSENAL IN HIS POSSESSION

Upon searching the car, officers discovered: Multiple firearms, including rifles and pistols

Loaded magazines ready for use, A gun with a “Glock Switch,” a device that turns it automatic, Bulletproof vest and armored helmet, Modified commercial-grade explosive devices

Given the seriousness of the discovery, officers secured the area and evacuated all nearby people as a precaution. Specialized explosives teams from the Gadsden Police Department and the ALEA bomb squad responded to the scene to neutralize the devices.

WHO IS THE SUSPECT?

The man arrested was identified as Austin Health Church, 37, of Anniston. He is currently facing multiple charges, including:

• Violation of a protection order

• Unlawful possession of firearms

• Possession of prohibited weapons (short-barreled rifles)

• Unlawful possession of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia

His bail and court date are still to be set.

AN ONGOING INVESTIGATION

This case has raised alarm bells among authorities, who are continuing the investigation in collaboration with several agencies, including:

• Gadsden Police Dept & ALEA’s Bomb Squad

• ATF (Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms

• Calhoun/Cleburne Violent Crime Task Force

• East Metro Area Crime Center (EMACC)

AN IMPORTANT LESSON: REPORTING SAVES LIVES

The quick action of the police and the bravery of the woman who reported the incident prevented a potential tragedy. This case is a clear reminder that if you see something suspicious, report it immediately.

Share this information to raise awareness. Your alert can save lives.