A man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for attempting a mass shooting at a church in Virginia.

Thirty-six-year-old Rui Jiang was found guilty of attempting to carry out a mass shooting, carrying a firearm, and transmitting threats over the internet to Park Valley Church in Haymarket.

In preparation for the planned attack in 2023, Jiang posted disturbing messages on Instagram, including: “I’m not going out until I kill somebody,” and, “I am here to target men and to deny men the life God actually denies me every day.”

He also shared an image of himself pointing a gun at a screen displaying a picture of a church and a burning Bible.

Police were alerted by a tip and located Jiang at the church while services were in progress. He was carrying a semi-automatic handgun, two loaded magazines, and two knives. Additional weapons and bear spray were found in his vehicle. A search of his residence revealed a signed manifesto outlining his intentions.

Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon described the incident as “the closest of calls.”

She commended law enforcement, church security, and a vigilant citizen for preventing what could have been a devastating tragedy, stating:
“The Justice Department will relentlessly pursue threats against houses of worship.”

U.S. Attorney Erik S. Siebert underscored the sacredness of places of worship, calling Jiang’s plan an “unspeakable act” that violated fundamental American values.

FBI Assistant Director Steven J. Jensen echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the crucial role of cooperation between the public and law enforcement in preventing targeted violence.