By Trend News Line 2024-02-13 08:21:58.
Houston Megachurch Shooting: Mother Opens Fire, Leaving Two Injured Before Being killed
A shocking incident unfolded on Sunday at the Lakewood Church in Houston when a 36-year-old mother opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle, leaving two people injured, including her 7-year-old son, before being fatally shot by law enforcement. The shooter has been identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno.
According to Houston police Chief Troy Finner, Moreno confronted a security guard outside the church and may have revealed her weapon, forcing her way inside. Wearing a trench coat and backpack, she entered the church between services and opened fire in a hallway with an AR-platform rifle. It is estimated that she fired around 30 bullets.
Fortunately, two off-duty officers were present at the church and engaged the shooter, ultimately fatally injuring her. Moreno’s son, who was shot in the head during the ordeal, is currently in critical condition at a hospital. The identity of the person responsible for the child’s injury remains unclear.
Investigators are now trying to determine the motive behind the shooting. Moreno, who had a lengthy criminal history and was going through a bitter divorce, had a history of mental health issues. Authorities are exploring whether the incident was politically motivated or carried out by a mentally disturbed individual.
The shooting at the Lakewood Church is the latest example of gun violence disrupting American life at previously considered safe locations. Law enforcement officials executed search warrants at Moreno’s home, uncovering substances consistent with the manufacture of explosive devices. It was also revealed that she legally purchased an AR-15 with a “Palestine” sticker on it in December.
Authorities are currently working to establish a motive for the shooting. Moreno’s complicated history has made it difficult to determine whether the act was driven by hate or a mental health crisis.
The incident has deeply affected the Lakewood Church community, led by well-known televangelist and pastor Joel Osteen. Osteen expressed his devastation over the incident, stating, “We’ve been here 65 years and to have somebody shooting at your church…”
Eyewitness accounts described the chaotic scene inside the church, with people running and screaming. One woman managed to find safety in a room with others, where they barricaded the door and began to pray.
As investigators continue their work, the community mourns the senseless violence that has once again disrupted a place of worship. The motive behind the shooting remains a mystery, but authorities are determined to uncover the truth.
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