By Trend News Line 2024-02-13 00:18:00.
Shooter with History of Mental Illness Attacks Texas Megachurch, Leaves 7-Year-Old Son Critically Injured
Houston, Texas – In a tragic incident that has shocked the local community, a shooter opened fire at Lakewood Church in Texas on Sunday, before being killed by security officers. The shooter has been identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno, a 36-year-old individual with a history of mental illness. Authorities have revealed that Moreno used an AR-style rifle in the attack, which also left their 7-year-old son critically injured.
During a news conference, Houston police Commander Chris Hassig provided some insight into Moreno’s background. Hassig revealed that Moreno sometimes used both male and female aliases, but investigators have determined that Moreno identified as female. It was also disclosed that Moreno had a history of mental illness and had been placed under emergency detention in 2016. However, no further details about the mental illness were provided at this time.
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner stated that it is still too early to determine the motive behind the shooting. However, officials are looking into a dispute involving Moreno and the family of Moreno’s ex-husband. Additionally, investigators have discovered antisemitic writings by the shooter, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation.
Commander Hassig further mentioned that Moreno’s rifle had a “Palestine” sticker on the buttstock. He described the shooter as a “lone wolf” and confirmed that Moreno was not acting as part of a larger group.
According to investigators, Moreno and the 7-year-old boy entered the church building at 1:55 p.m. Moreno pointed a gun at an unarmed security guard and began firing once inside. In response, off-duty Houston police Officer Christopher Moreno and Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Agent Adrian Herrera, who were serving as security guards, returned fire and killed Genesse Moreno.
While both officers discharged their weapons, it is still unclear if Moreno’s son was accidentally shot by one of them. The young boy remains in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the head.
This shocking incident has left the community in disbelief, as they come to terms with the senseless violence that unfolded within their place of worship. As the investigation continues, authorities will strive to uncover the full extent of the shooter’s motives and the events leading up to this tragic incident.
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1) “Texas megachurch shooter’s son hurt in attack”
2) “7-year-old son of Texas megachurch shooter injured in attack”.