Axe-Wielding Man Found on Milwaukee Church Altar on Easter

Prosecutors say the suspect told police he was God and the Incredible Hulk

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:57pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged church altar cross reflecting the harsh light of a camera flash, creating a stark, gritty aesthetic that conveys the serious nature of the crime.A damaged church altar cross reflects the harsh light of a police investigation, exposing the aftermath of a brazen Easter Sunday break-in.Today in Milwaukee

A 50-year-old man from Green Bay, Wisconsin has been charged with felony criminal damage to religious property and misdemeanor disorderly conduct after allegedly breaking into a Milwaukee church on Easter Sunday, damaging the front door with an axe, and then standing on the altar holding the axe. When police arrived, the suspect reportedly told them he was God and made comments about the Incredible Hulk.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about security and mental health issues at places of worship, especially on high-profile religious holidays when churches may have increased attendance. It also highlights the challenges law enforcement can face when responding to suspects who appear to be experiencing a mental health crisis.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Aron Ferris broke into the Church of the Gesu on the Marquette University campus and used an axe to damage the front door. When police arrived, they found Ferris seated near the altar, holding the axe and "flipping it around." Ferris allegedly told police he was God and made references to the Incredible Hulk. After several minutes, Ferris was taken into custody. Police also found a gun and a second axe in Ferris' vehicle outside the church. The complaint estimates $50,000 in damage was done to the church.

  • The incident occurred on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026.
  • Police responded to the church just before 4 p.m. that day.

The players

Aron Ferris

A 50-year-old man from Green Bay, Wisconsin who has been charged with felony criminal damage to religious property and misdemeanor disorderly conduct.

Church of the Gesu

A Catholic church located on the campus of Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where the incident took place.

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What they’re saying

“Do you know who the incredible hulk is, do you know what happens to him when he gets angry?”

— Aron Ferris, Suspect

“If you shoot me, the bullet will head towards me and then turn around and go back towards you.”

— Aron Ferris, Suspect

What’s next

Aron Ferris is expected to appear in court in the coming days for a bail hearing. Prosecutors will likely seek to have him undergo a mental health evaluation given his reported statements to police.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for increased security and mental health resources at places of worship, especially during high-profile religious holidays. It also underscores the challenges law enforcement can face when responding to suspects who may be experiencing a mental health crisis.