Houston Police Release Chilling Bodycam Footage From Joel Osteen Megachurch Shooting Incident

Houston, Texas – The chilling bodycam footage released on Monday captures the harrowing moment when a shooter opened fire at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church on 11 February. Police revealed that a female shooter, identified as 36-year-old Genesse Ivonne Moreno, entered the church armed with an AR-15 rifle, with the word “Palestine” across it, before initiating the shooting.

The footage shows chaotic scenes of people, including children, running from the gunfire as officers bravely ran towards the gunshots to confront the suspect. Gunfire can be heard in the background as officers shout commands for the suspect to put the weapon down. Another officer can be heard expressing concern that the shooter may have a bomb, heightening the tense situation.

Moreno was heard threatening to “blow up” the church, causing further alarm among the worshippers. The two off-duty officers confronted Moreno in the hallway of the church, resulting in an exchange of gunfire that led to her demise. During the confrontation, Moreno’s seven-year-old son, believed to be the shooter’s child, was struck in the head by a bullet and taken to the hospital in critical condition.

In the aftermath of the tragic incident, the church’s lead pastor, Joel Osteen, vowed to pray for both the injured child and the deceased shooter. Osteen emphasized the importance of staying strong and moving forward despite the devastating events. He commended the swift actions of law enforcement in neutralizing the threat and preventing further casualties.

Authorities are still investigating Moreno’s motive behind the shooting, as well as recovering antisemitic writings allegedly found in her possession. Commander Christopher Hassig revealed that the shooter was embroiled in a familial dispute with her ex-husband and his Jewish family, indicating a possible motive for the attack. However, officials cautioned against premature speculation, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.

Despite the tragic outcome, Osteen remains steadfast in his faith, believing that God is in control even in the face of senseless violence. The community continues to come together to support the victims and their families, seeking solace and healing in the wake of this heartbreaking event. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are determined to uncover the full extent of the circumstances that led to such a devastating act of violence.