If you regularly attend church, as I do, this is a chilling story from Michigan City. Matthew Schutz’ wife called the police to say that her husband, whom she has a protective order against, was going to Full Gospel Church to kill a parishioner. She provided police text messages allegedly from Schutz stating he would kill not only the parishioner but her and her family.
The wife said Schutz was driving a red truck. Police arrived at the church, and found a red truck in the parking lot. Once inside, police reportedly saw Schutz sitting in the back of the church, with his alleged target, a man, sitting closer to the front. Police confronted Schutz, and started to pat him down. He then ran for the exit, but police managed to stop and cuff him before he could leave.
Police found five cylinder-shaped objects with wicks in his pockets, and a firearm. A bomb squad later found more explosive devices at Schutz’ home. Schutz allegedly told investigators he made the threats out of anger at his wife’s “personal decisions.” He also intended to kill another parishioner and family at their home later.
No one was injured, and Schutz is being charged with multiple felonies.
This story is a reminder that domestic disputes can spill over into church bodies, and people who are trying to help a troubled marriage can become targets themselves. Church security, if present and fully aware of the threat, can often be a line of defense, but even they may not be able to fully screen each individual present. Have you had a dangerous domestic incident at church? Leave a comment below.
