Rescued! TN Pastor Is “Miraculously Unharmed” After Shootout With Kidnappers
on Apr 16, 2025
Pastor Josh Sullivan Kidnapped At Gunpoint In South Africa
Tennessee native Josh Sullivan was leading a prayer meeting at a church in Motherwell, Eastern Cape, South Africa, when “at least four men” entered the building and abducted him at gunpoint.
The 45-year-old pastor’s wife, Meagan, and six children were present and witnessed the terrifying encounter. The Sullivans moved to South Africa in 2018 to help plant churches and share the gospel.
Witnesses reported that the armed men forced Sullivan into his own vehicle, a silver Toyota 4Runner, and fled the scene.
While the South African Police Service refrained from identifying the man, Fellowship Baptist Church in Mossy Grove, Tennessee, confirmed that it was indeed Sullivan. They shared a desperate plea on their Facebook page and requested prayer for his safety.
Josh Sullivan Rescued Following Deadly Shootout
In the early morning hours of April 16th, fellow pastor Tom Hatley shared the incredible news that Josh Sullivan had been rescued after six days in captivity. He wrote:
“Thank you for your support and prayers. Please do not stop praying for The Sullivans. Praise The Lord Jesus Christ!”
A media statement shared by the South African Police Service (SAPS) revealed details of the rescue mission. A team of law enforcement partners followed verified intelligence to the location where Silluvan was being held in another township within the city.
Upon approaching the house, a “high-intensity shootout” occurred, which resulted in the fatal wounding of three unidentified suspects.
Sullivan was found “miraculously unharmed” inside the same vehicle used in the abduction. He was later evaluated by medical professionals and is reportedly in “excellent condition.”
This is the house in Kwamagxaki, Gqerberha where the US pastor was kept hostage for six days. His kidnappers had demanded a ransom for his release.On Tuesday, 15 April SAPS & HAWKS pounced on the address, 3 suspects were shot & killed & the pastor was rescued. No ransom paid pic.twitter.com/HtG2lBSppH
— Athlenda Mathe (@AthlendaM) April 16, 2025
An Investigation Into The Kidnapping Is Ongoing
After sharing the news of the successful rescue of Josh Sullivan, the SAPS wrote:
“We extend sincere appreciation to all role players that includes our law enforcement members, the public, international partners, both local and international media whose support and vigilance were instrumental in this success.”
Additionally, they confirmed that an investigation into the crime is underway and added:
“We respectfully request privacy for the victim and his family as they navigate this period of recovery.”
To learn more about the Sullivans’ work in South Africa, visit their website.
