A Sunday evening church service at a church in the 300 block of Selkirk Avenue was disrupted when a man armed with a knife approached the altar and attempted to assault the pastor. The incident occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 9, 2025, according to the Winnipeg Police Service.
Police say a 50-year-old male suspect advanced toward the 38-year-old pastor during the service. The pastor was able to escape unharmed, and the suspect then drove the knife into the altar before sitting in a chair at the back. No injuries were reported.
An off-duty RCMP member, who was attending the service along with other churchgoers, detained the suspect until Winnipeg Police arrived.
Pawel Olownia, 50, of Winnipeg has been charged with assault with a weapon, possession of a weapon, and disturbing a meeting or assemblage of persons. He remains in custody.
© 2025 News4.ca
