– Shooter Texas megachurch attack
– Shooter AR-style rifle attack.
By Trend News Line 2024-02-13 07:00:00.
# Texas Megachurch Shooting: Gunman Identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno
**Houston, Texas** – In a tragic incident on Sunday, a shooting took place at Lakewood Church, a prominent megachurch led by pastor Joel Osteen. The shooter has been identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno, a 36-year-old individual with a history of mental illness. Shockingly, Moreno brought their young son to the attack, which unfolded using an AR-style rifle and ended in a gun battle with two off-duty officers.
According to Houston police, Moreno entered the church wearing a trenchcoat and carrying a backpack. It was during the transition between services that the attack occurred, sending worshippers into a frenzy as they sought safety. The shooter’s motive remains unclear, but investigators are looking into a dispute involving Moreno and the family of their ex-husband.
Moreno’s 7-year-old son was unfortunately shot in the head during the incident and is currently in critical condition. Although Moreno was not a known member of Osteen’s congregation, the attack has left a lasting impact on the church community.
Further investigation into the shooter’s background has revealed antisemitic writings and the presence of a “Palestine” sticker on the rifle. Moreno’s former in-laws are Jewish, suggesting a possible motive for the attack. However, Houston Police Commander Chris Hassig emphasized that Moreno acted alone, describing them as a “lone wolf.”
Authorities searched Moreno’s residence in Conroe, a city located over 50 miles north of the church. Past records indicate that Moreno had prior arrests and was involved in a divorce and child custody battle in 2022. It was during this period that Moreno’s ex-mother-in-law sought advice from pastoral staff at Lakewood, although specific details regarding the contact remain unclear.
The investigation also revealed that Moreno had legally purchased the rifle used in the attack in December. However, the source of the firearm is currently under scrutiny. Additionally, Moreno was found to have carried a .22 caliber rifle into the church.
The gun battle took place in a church hallway, and the main sanctuary was not affected. The security guards, off-duty Houston police officer Christopher Moreno and Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Agent Adrian Herrera, displayed immense bravery during the confrontation. “They held their ground in the face of rifle fire at point-blank range,” praised Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Chairman Kevin Lilly.
While the motive behind the attack is yet to be determined, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the need for vigilance in our communities. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and their families during this difficult time..
– Shooter Texas megachurch attack
– Shooter AR-style rifle attack at Texas megachurch.