Bobby Brown stands outside prior to the funeral services for Whitney Houston at the New Hope Baptist Church on February 18, 2012 in Newark, New Jersey. (Bennett Raglin/Getty Images)
(WXIA) -- According to NBC News, Bobby Brown left the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, shortly after the beginning of the funeral service for singer Whitney Houston.
Brown, Houston's ex-husband, was seen arriving at the church just after the noon start time for the services Saturday, but NBC News confirms that Brown left shortly afterward.
Rev. Al Sharpton, also in attendance at the funeral, tweeted, "I am at Whitney's funeral. I spoke with Bobby Brown trying to calm him down and not distract from the services. Today is about Whitney!"
Brown walked to the casket and touched it before walking to the back of the church.
The Associated Press said security at the church told Brown he would be seated, but the people that came with him would have to sit elsewhere. They said Brown became upset and left the services.
Brown later issued a statement:
"My children and I were invited to the funeral of my ex-wife Whitney Houston. We were seated by security and then subsequently asked to move on three separate occasions.
"I fail to understand why security treated my family this way and continue to ask us and no one else to move. Security then prevented me from attempting to see my daughter Bobbi-Kristina. In light of the events, I gave a kiss to the casket of my ex-wife and departed as I refused to create a scene. My children are completely distraught over the events. This was a day to honor Whitney. I doubt Whitney would have wanted this to occur. I will continue to pay my respects to my ex-wife the best way I know how."