Gunman Fires in Texas Church; Subdued, No Injuries

Off-Duty Trooper, Pastor Thwart Church Shooter in Montgomery

Montgomery, TX – An off-duty Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper and the church’s pastor are being hailed as heroes after they disarmed a gunman who opened fire inside Cornerstone Church during a Sunday morning service. The incident, which occurred around 11:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at the church located at 12020 FM 149, resulted in no injuries.

Authorities identified the suspect as Jesse James Sheptock, 30, who allegedly entered the sanctuary through the front doors, walked down the aisle, and then brandished a .40 caliber handgun. Witnesses reported Sheptock fired multiple shots inside the building.

Quick action by off-duty DPS Trooper Glenn Cash and Cornerstone Church Pastor Ben Young is credited with preventing further harm. The two men reportedly tackled Sheptock, disarmed him, and held him until Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived on the scene.

Sheptock was taken into custody and subsequently charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, a first-degree felony. His bond has been set at $150,000. Reports indicate Sheptock had attended the church previously, and some sources suggest he was disgruntled with the church prior to the shooting.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation into the incident. Community members expressed profound relief that no one was injured during the alarming event.