A swift police response prevented what authorities believe could have been a catastrophic attack on a North Carolina church Sunday morning when an armed man was arrested in the parking lot with an arsenal that included flamethrowers, crossbows, and extensive surveillance materials.
William S. Milliken III, 44, was taken into custody outside Wesley Memorial Church in High Point after a vigilant congregant called 911 to report an armed individual sitting in the parking lot wearing camouflage clothing. An off-duty officer stationed at the church immediately located the suspect, and with assistance from responding officers who arrived within minutes, Milliken was apprehended without incident.
The subsequent search of Milliken’s vehicle revealed a disturbing cache of weapons and materials. Officers discovered two flamethrowers, two crossbows, more than 500 rounds of ammunition, and three knives. Also found were rolls of black duct tape, oxycodone pills, and a carbon dioxide-powered launcher designed to resemble a handgun.
Perhaps most alarming to investigators were items suggesting premeditation and reconnaissance. Court documents indicate that authorities recovered a notebook containing addresses of churches, schools, and public buildings, along with GPS coordinates. The suspect also possessed body armor, radios equipped with police scanners, handcuff keys, and an enlarged map of North Carolina.
Milliken now faces multiple serious charges, including possession of a weapon of mass destruction, impersonation of a law enforcement officer, and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance.
The High Point Police Department issued a statement confirming the arrest and detailing the recovered materials, though officials have not yet disclosed a potential motive for the suspect’s actions.
This incident occurs against a backdrop of increasing security concerns at houses of worship nationwide. Earlier this year, Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, was stormed by anti-ICE protesters in an incident that drew controversy when the city attorney declined to prosecute, characterizing the disruption as a “peaceful protest.” That decision has sparked ongoing debate about the protection of religious institutions and the boundaries of lawful demonstration.
The quick thinking of both the congregant who placed the emergency call and the off-duty officer present at Wesley Memorial Church likely prevented a tragedy. Their actions underscore the importance of vigilance and the value of having trained security personnel at places of worship.
As communities of faith continue to grapple with security challenges, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the threats that can materialize without warning. The investigation into Milliken’s intentions and the extent of his planning remains ongoing, with authorities working to determine whether additional locations or individuals may have been at risk.
The suspect remains in custody at the Guilford County Jail as prosecutors prepare their case. Church leaders have not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident, though the congregation was reportedly shaken but grateful for the rapid police response that ensured their safety.
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