Rash of Break-Ins Hits Multiple Churches in Warren

Police search for suspect believed to be behind overnight church burglaries since Easter

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:57pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shattered glass from a church window, the jagged edges and textured surface dramatically illuminated by a harsh flash against a dark background, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of this crime.The aftermath of a senseless break-in exposes the vulnerability of sacred spaces in the community.Today in Detroit

Warren police are investigating a series of break-ins at five different churches on the city's south side, with the suspect described as a Black male in his mid-30s riding a BMW-style bike. The incidents have left church leaders shocked and fearful, with damage to property but no clear motive or stolen items reported so far.

Why it matters

The string of church break-ins is highly unusual for the area and has raised concerns among religious leaders and the broader community about the security and sanctity of places of worship. Police are working to identify and apprehend the suspect to prevent further incidents.

The details

According to police, the suspect has broken into five different churches since Easter, kicking out stained glass windows and ransacking the interiors, though it's unclear if anything was stolen. Surveillance footage shows the suspect riding a BMX-style bike with silver fenders. While the motive remains unclear, church leaders are dismayed by the senseless nature of the crimes.

  • The break-ins began occurring since Easter Sunday.
  • The most recent incident happened on Good Friday at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church.
  • The suspect struck Warren Missionary Baptist Church twice, once while people were present and a second time when the church was empty.

The players

Warren Police Lt. John Gajewski

A police lieutenant overseeing the investigation into the church break-ins.

Thomas Essenmacher

The vice president of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, which was targeted by the suspect.

Shannon Kemp

The wife of the pastor at Warren Missionary Baptist Church, which was broken into twice by the suspect.

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What they’re saying

“Kind of unusual. Something we don't see very often. We've had six break-ins at assorted churches.”

— Warren Police Lt. John Gajewski, Police Lieutenant

“Shocked. There wasn't a lot of words to put to it because it seems very senseless.”

— Thomas Essenmacher, Vice President, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

“Everything was all over the place. It was a mess. I'm assuming they were looking for cash. We are fearful that they might come back. We'll probably be a little bit better prepared.”

— Shannon Kemp, Pastor's Wife, Warren Missionary Baptist Church

What’s next

Police are urging anyone with information about the suspect or the break-ins to contact the Warren Police Department to help track down the individual responsible.

The takeaway

This series of church break-ins has shaken the local religious community, raising concerns about the security and sanctity of places of worship. While the motive remains unclear, the incidents highlight the need for increased vigilance and collaboration between law enforcement and faith leaders to protect these important community institutions.