Memphis police arrested a man accused of sending a chilling email to a church choir director, threatening to “butcher” churchgoers with a machete.
According to Fox News, the suspect allegedly emailed the choir director of an unnamed Memphis church with explicit threats of violence.
The email reportedly detailed his intent to attack worshippers during a service, specifying the use of a machete. Memphis police acted swiftly after the threat was reported, apprehending the suspect before any harm could be carried out.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity or a potential motive, though investigations are ongoing.
WREG, a local Memphis news station, provided additional context, noting that the man’s threats were directed broadly at church attendees rather than a specific individual.
The station emphasized the fear instilled in the community, with congregants expressing relief at the suspect’s arrest but lingering concerns about safety in places of worship.
“It’s terrifying to think someone would target a church like this,” one anonymous church member told WREG.
Posts found on X further highlighted the incident, with users sharing links to news reports and expressing outrage over the threat. While these posts reflect public sentiment, details remain reliant on official reporting from established outlets.
The Associated Press (AP) underscored the rapid response by law enforcement, crediting the church leadership for promptly alerting authorities after receiving the email.
The AP report also noted that the suspect is currently in custody, facing charges related to making terroristic threats, though formal charges may evolve as the investigation progresses.
Memphis Police Department officials declined to comment extensively, stating only that the case remains under active review.
This incident adds to a growing national conversation about security at religious institutions, a topic that has resurfaced in recent years amid similar threats and attacks.
While no injuries occurred in this case, the psychological impact on the congregation is undeniable. Fox News quoted a police spokesperson who assured the public that “all necessary measures are being taken to ensure the safety of the community.”
Details about the suspect’s background or what may have prompted the email remain scarce.
Neither the church’s name nor the exact wording of the email has been disclosed publicly, likely to protect the privacy of those involved and the integrity of the investigation.
Authorities have encouraged anyone with additional information to come forward as they work to piece together the full scope of the incident.
