Self-proclaimed prophet charged after armed threat at Houston church

A 23-year-old man, who identifies himself as “a prophet called Warlock,” has been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon following a harrowing incident at a Houston church.

Emmanuel Ashono Mbwavi was arrested on March 15, 2026, at Eden Church after a member of the security team intervened during a live service.

Authorities allege that Mbwavi was carrying a loaded .22 calibre revolver and approximately 100 rounds of ammunition in a backpack at the time of his apprehension.

The intervention occurred when security member Fernando Romo noticed Mbwavi, who had previously been banned from the premises, behaving suspiciously while Pastor Jared Darby was speaking.

Romo reported seeing the suspect gripping a pistol in his pocket and attempting to draw it. Believing an active shooting was imminent, Romo tackled Mbwavi to the ground.

During the struggle, Mbwavi allegedly shouted, “I’m gonna kill Jared, who is a fake prophet. I am a prophet called Warlock.”

Investigators later discovered a chilling memo on Mbwavi's mobile phone that read: "Kill Jared Darby in downstairs restroom with bag."

The note also contained specific details about the pastor's vehicle. Surveillance footage corroborated witness accounts, showing the suspect walking among churchgoers with his hand on a weapon.

Pastor Abraham Guajardo credited the security team's swift actions with saving the lives of the congregation. Prosecutors have requested a $50,000 bond for Mbwavi, who remains in custody as legal proceedings continue.

This incident follows a recent rise in security enhancements for local religious institutions across the Houston metropolitan area.