Man Charged After Trying to Bring Gun Into Sacramento Catholic School Mass

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A 20-year-old man named Brian Girardot Jr. was charged after he allegedly tried to bring a loaded gun into a Catholic church in Sacramento, California during an all-school Mass on Ash Wednesday. Handwritten notes found in Girardot's home referenced suicide and threats, indicating he was preparing for a 'violent incident', according to prosecutors. Girardot, a former student at the school, was disarmed and detained by an off-duty police officer who was a parent volunteer at the church.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing threat of gun violence in schools and places of worship, and the importance of vigilant security measures to protect vulnerable communities. The discovery of Girardot's disturbing writings also raises concerns about mental health issues and the need for better intervention and support systems.

The details

On the morning of February 18, Girardot dropped off a younger relative at St. Mary Parish School before returning shortly after with a gun. He then attempted to enter the church during the all-school Mass. An off-duty police officer who was a parent volunteer saw the 'suspicious male adult approach the front of the church' and intervened, disarming and detaining Girardot. Additional ammunition and a camouflage jacket were found in Girardot's nearby vehicle. Law enforcement later searched Girardot's home and found a stack of handwritten notes in his bedroom that contained references to suicide and threats.

• On February 18, Girardot dropped off a relative at the school and then returned with a gun.
• Girardot attempted to enter the church during the all-school Mass on Ash Wednesday.

What’s next

Girardot was charged with possessing a firearm within a school zone and faces additional state-level criminal charges. The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow him to be released on bail.