Two people are dead, following a shotgun attack during a children's play at a Knoxville, Tennessee church.

It happened early on July 27 at a the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.

Those who have died are 61-year-old Linda Kraeger and 60-year old Greg McKendry.

At least five church members remain in the hospital.

As Gordon Boyd from our sister station WVLT in Knoxville explains, police have a man in custody, now they're just trying to have answers.

"(He's) not a member of a congregation as far as any of us know," stated TVUUC member, Steve Drevik.

For police and his alleged targets, 58-year-old Jim Adkisson is the face of the stranger who, in seconds, has shattered nine lives, and forever seared some 200 more.

"Greg McKendry, we loved Greg McKendry," exclaimed Reverend Chris Buice.

McKendry was an usher and board member for the Tennessee Valley Unitarian Universalist Church.

He was the first, police say, to see Adkisson, to try to stop him.

He would die for it.

"We received reports of shots fired at the church," recalled Knoxville Police Chief, Sterling Owen.

In the sanctuary.

Into a crowd, watching a children's play.

"A lot of people, of course, just hit the dirt behind the pews," explained Drevik.

But at least three did not.

"The suspect had been subdued by other individuals in the sanctuary," said Chief Owen.

"Our officers took him into custody."

Dozens had seen it or were there has it happened.

Many of the witnesses were children, some taken to Second Presbyterian next door.

"Two of them was really horribly upset and one was throwing things," stated TVUUC member, Katie Wilson.

"Seeing kids like that and how they dealt with stress really made you realize how you'd act if something like that ever happened."

Their parents, at least two dozen witnesses, have had to spend hours reliving it talking to investigators.

Some shared home video meant to capture their kids proudest moments, but instead maybe the crime itself.

"We've recovered all of the videotapes that we could," explained Chief Owen.

"There's a lot we cannot tell you simply because it would affect the outcome of the case."

The evidence police will discuss includes the extra shells the alleged shooter brought for whatever he'd planned.

"We loved Greg McKendry, and please pray for this congregation, for we are grieving the loss of a wonderful man."

Most of the day friends, family and strangers have come to offer and receive comfort.

TVUUC member Carrie Nicely was among the many leaving flowers, but left with a sorrowful emptiness.

"It's very upsetting," said Nicely.

"You think Church is some place for love. Not Hate."

58-year-old Jim Adkisson is in custody and charged with first-degree murder.

The gunman's motive is not yet known.

But the church is known for promoting progressive social work, such as desegregation and fighting for the rights of women, gays and the homeless.