Published on November 21, 2023, 11:33 pm

Image source: Fox News

In a shocking turn of events, local authorities in Arizona are launching an extensive investigation following the shooting of a Christian evangelist under nebulous circumstances. The incident took place on an Arizona street last week and has left 26-year-old Hans Schmidt hospitalized with critical conditions.

Schmidt serves as the outreach director at Victory Chapel First Phoenix Church and was reportedly shot in the head while delivering a sermon on the streets before service, according to the church’s official statement. Responding to a distress call about a male presenting with severe head injuries at a local hospital, the Glendale Police Department initially suspected an assault case. However, it was soon confirmed that Schmidt had endured a gunshot wound.

Up until this juncture, there hasn’t been any verified report suggesting how exactly Schmidt ended up being shot while preaching from the corner of 51st Avenue in Peoria. Public Information Officer for Glendale Police Department Gina Winn launched an appeal for public assistance noting the bustling nature of the intersection where forms plausible speculation that there might have been people around when this grievous incident happened.

Citing her concerns for Schmidt, who is recently married with two small children besides having served as a military medic, Winn urged everyone who might possess any relevant information to aid in delivering justice by contacting them. Surveillance footage from various businesses around is currently being scrutinized as part of an ongoing intensive investigation.

While speculations abound regarding possible culprits or causes for this seeming assault – whether it was instigated by someone driving by or someone on foot whether it had any relation to Shannon’s Law where firearms are fired into the open sky resulting in hazardous descents – confirmations remain elusive yet highly anticipated.

Winn reiterated one important message: “If you see something, say something.” And indeed, according to reports from 3TV/CBS 5, Paul Sanchez did just that. He captured hateful comments and abrasive screams hurled at Schmidt possibly by some passerby.

Victory Chapel First Phoenix Church in the aftermath of the tragic incident, issued a statement citing Schmidt’s desperate need for miracles and fervently urging faithful to offer prayers for him. His wife’s emotional outpouring on social media further encapsulated this crisis while she continued to ask for any helpful information regarding the inconceivable tragedy that fell upon them.

The shooting not only disrupted routines at Victory Chapel but also left its members stunned and heartbroken. One church member, Larry Dettman, remarked on the horrific situation underlining its abruptness and indication towards real evil rampant in society. The incident is a harsh stark reminder about that grim reality forcing us to wonder where humanity is headed?

In order to get trusted news updates regarding this horrifying tragedy seen through a Christian worldview of faith, prayer, and justice; keep following real news platforms asking questions, seeking answers, praying sympathetically, and preserving hope.