An Oklahoma pastor is recovering after sustaining stab wounds during a violent altercation at his church last week, an incident that has drawn attention to congregant bravery and a federal investigation.
The attack occurred at the Church of Christ in Pryor Creek, a congregation known for its long history of community involvement, youth outreach programs and active participation in local initiatives.
Pryor Creek Police responded to a reported disturbance at the church on Dec. 22. Officers arriving on the scene found an ongoing physical confrontation.
The pastor, whose name has not been officially released but has been identified as DJ Castoe, sustained stab wounds to his hand and lacerations to his chin before being transported to a Tulsa-area hospital for treatment.
Authorities confirmed his injuries were non-life-threatening, though he is expected to undergo surgery on his hand, The Christian Post reports.
The suspect, who a local news report identified as Whitney Adney, was taken into custody at the scene and later transferred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation due to her tribal status.
Police confirmed that the area had been secured and that there was no ongoing threat to the public.
Pryor Creek Police Chief Jeremy Cantrell described the attack as “unprovoked, deliberate, and intentional.”
He praised Castoe and two senior parishioners who intervened, noting that their decisive actions to disarm and restrain the assailant likely prevented more serious injuries.
Cantrell highlighted the courage and selflessness displayed, emphasizing that the pastor and parishioners risked their safety to protect others in the church.
The Church of Christ has long served as a hub for local families, combining worship services with mentorship programs, youth activities and outreach initiatives aimed at supporting community members in need.
Retired minister Jeff Lovitt, who previously led the congregation, shared on Facebook that Castoe had once been part of his youth group.
Lovitt expressed concern for the pastor’s recovery, called for prayers, and emphasized the importance of ensuring the suspect cannot harm anyone else.
Witnesses noted that Castoe remained remarkably composed throughout the attack, according to Church Leaders.
The rapid intervention by parishioners underscores the value of a close-knit church community in responding to emergencies.
Their courage and immediate action prevented the situation from escalating further, demonstrating the critical role of community solidarity in protecting vulnerable individuals.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the suspect’s motive, and the investigation remains active under federal oversight.
The incident also raises broader concerns about safety protocols in houses of worship and the readiness of congregations to respond to sudden violent situations.
Many faith communities nationwide have begun reviewing security measures, training staff in emergency response and ensuring that parishioners understand how to act decisively in critical moments.
The Pryor Creek congregation’s response has become an example of effective, courageous action in a high-stakes environment.
As Castoe continues his recovery, law enforcement and church leadership remain vigilant, ensuring that both the congregation and staff are protected while the investigation progresses.
The attack has renewed conversations about personal safety in religious spaces and highlighted the importance of a supportive, alert community capable of responding swiftly when unexpected violence occurs.
The bravery displayed during the incident is being lauded as a model of composure and courage in the face of immediate danger.
