In a startling incident that unfolded in Connecticut, Pastor Kenneth Moolz Jr. found himself fighting for his life against a teenage carjacker armed with a gun. The shocking altercation occurred while Moolz was en route to dinner after attending a funeral. A video capturing the confrontation has since gone viral, drawing widespread attention and sparking discussions about violence and youth in America.
Moolz recounted the harrowing experience, detailing how the teenager approached his car, tapping on the window with a firearm. Initially, the pastor attempted to remain in his vehicle, but when the situation escalated, instinct kicked in. “Before you knew it, I’m opening the door, and immediately fight mode turns on,” he explained. Recognizing the immediate danger, Moolz made a split-second decision to confront the assailant.
The struggle was intense, with Moolz eventually able to wrestle the gun from the teen and tackle him to the ground. However, upon realizing that his attacker was just a 16-year-old, Moolz expressed compassion and offered not to press charges. Yet, the teen declined the offer, reclaiming the weapon before fleeing with the pastor’s car. The stolen vehicle was later recovered, and the teenager, along with two accomplices, was arrested.
Reflecting on the incident, Moolz expressed concern over the lack of respect shown by the young assailant, even after revealing his identity as a pastor. “He had no reverence for me as a pastor,” Moolz lamented. “That’s what hurts me the most.” This encounter has prompted Moolz to reconsider his mission and outreach efforts within the community.
Having started his career as a youth pastor alongside his father, Moolz has always been passionate about mentoring young people. However, the encounter has led him to believe that mentorship alone is insufficient. “We have to introduce our generation to our Lord Jesus Christ,” he stated, emphasizing the need for spiritual guidance alongside education. Moolz is determined to address what he perceives as a significant spiritual void among today’s youth, noting the decreasing number of church attendees in his community.
As a member of the Bridgeport Board of Education, Moolz has been actively involved in local initiatives. Yet, he now sees a deeper calling to not only educate but to inspire a generation that he believes is increasingly disconnected from faith. “This is a very churchless generation,” he remarked, highlighting the urgent need for change.
The video of Moolz’s confrontation has sparked conversations about youth violence and community engagement, with many applauding his bravery and compassion. As he continues his work in the community, the pastor hopes to inspire change and foster a greater connection between young people and their faith.