HOUSTON, Texas – A tragic incident unfolded at a popular Texas megachurch, Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church, when a woman entered the premises with a long gun and opened fire before being shot and killed by law enforcement officers on site. The shooting left a 7-year-old child in critical condition and another man injured, officials reported.
The woman, identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno, 36, reportedly entered the church wearing a trench coat and backpack before firing her weapon. Two off-duty officers engaged the shooter and she was ultimately shot dead. Her son was also injured during the shooting and remains in critical condition in the hospital.
Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind the shooting, as well as the history of the shooter, who has a documented mental health history and a string of minor arrests over the last two decades. Investigators are looking into whether she was politically motivated or a disturbed individual. The woman had made references to a bomb, but no explosives were found by authorities.
This incident marks another tragic outbreak of gun violence in the US, occurring at a place of worship and highlighting the ongoing issue of safety in public spaces. The shooting has raised concerns not only for the community affected but also for the mental well-being of the law enforcement officers involved.
The shooting at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church is just one instance of how gun violence has disrupted American life at places that were once considered safe. The incident brings to light the ongoing debate on gun control and public safety in the country.
Despite the tragic event, Governor Greg Abbott has offered the state’s full support and resources to help the community heal from this difficult time. The investigation into the shooting and the shooter’s background continues as authorities work to understand the reasons behind the tragic incident.
As details about the shooting at Lakewood Church continue to emerge, the community is left grappling with the aftermath of the traumatic event, raising questions about the nation’s approach to gun safety and mental health issues.