Texas man arrested for bringing loaded gun, ammo to Houston church service

Security guard tackled the suspect before he could open fire on the congregation.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 12:52am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a loaded gun cylinder, capturing the stark, gritty details of the crime-related evidence in a dramatic, investigative style.A security team's swift action prevented a potential mass shooting at a Houston church service.Houston Today

A 23-year-old Texas man named Emmanuel Ahsono Mbwavi was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon after he brought a loaded gun and over 100 rounds of ammunition to a church service in Houston. A security guard recognized Mbwavi from a previous incident and tackled him before he could open fire on the congregation.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the growing concerns around gun violence and security threats at places of worship. Churches have become targets for extremist attacks in recent years, leading many to bolster security measures. The quick action by the church's security team likely prevented a tragic outcome.

The details

According to court documents, Mbwavi arrived at Eden Church in downtown Houston on March 15 and was recognized by a security guard who had previously asked him to leave the property. The guard saw Mbwavi following a pastor into the bathroom and then walking in and out of the crowd. When another pastor confronted Mbwavi, the guard noticed he was holding a gun in his pocket. The guard tackled Mbwavi, believing he was about to open fire, and the security team restrained him. Mbwavi was carrying a loaded .22-caliber revolver and over 100 additional rounds of ammunition.

  • On March 15, Mbwavi arrived at the church in downtown Houston.
  • Roughly two months earlier, Mbwavi had been asked to leave the church property after trying to hand out 'concerning' flyers.

The players

Emmanuel Ahsono Mbwavi

A 23-year-old Texas man who was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon for bringing a loaded gun and over 100 rounds of ammunition to a church service in Houston.

Eden Church

The Houston church where the incident took place, which holds services at the Post Entertainment Center.

Church security team

The security personnel at Eden Church who recognized Mbwavi from a previous incident, monitored his behavior, and tackled him before he could open fire on the congregation.

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What they’re saying

“I'm going to kill [the pastor], who is a fake prophet. I am a prophet called Warlock.”

— Emmanuel Ahsono Mbwavi, Suspect

What’s next

Mbwavi is being held in jail on $200,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court again on April 15 for a hearing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of vigilant security measures at places of worship, as well as the need for greater understanding and support for those struggling with mental health issues that may drive them to violence.