A potential catastrophe was averted at Lakewood Church, among the nation’s most significant evangelical congregations, when a woman, armed with a rifle and accompanied by a young boy, began firing on Sunday, February 11. The situation was quickly addressed by two off-duty law enforcement officers, averting what could have been a grave tragedy.
At around 2 pm, the woman, identified in a search warrant as Genesse Ivonne Moreno, 36, entered the premises of the Houston-based megachurch, brandishing a long rifle. At the time, the church, renowned for its extensive membership led by televangelist Joel Osteen, was in preparation for a Spanish-language service. Houston Police Chief Troy Finner confirmed these events during a news conference.
The officers involved, one from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the other a Houston police officer, were at the church in a private capacity. They took immediate action, fatally shooting the woman.
The boy, who is Moreno’s son and is believed to be about seven years old, sustained critical injuries and is now under care at Texas Children’s Hospital with a gunshot wound to the head. Another victim, a man in his fifties, received a non-critical wound to his leg. The specifics of how the child was injured, whether by the shooter or in the ensuing response, have not been disclosed.
Chief Finner emphasized the potential for a more severe outcome, citing the assailant’s use of a long gun, spraying an unknown substance on the floor, and her unfounded claim of possessing a bomb. This claim led to a thorough examination of her belongings and vehicle, yet no explosives were uncovered.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has offered his condolences to the victims and the wider Lakewood Church community.
Authorities continue to investigate, aiming to construct a detailed account of the events leading up to the shooting and any connections the shooter may have had to the church. Moreno, who has been going through a custody battle with her ex-spouse, has a history of mental health problems and a slew of arrests including possession of marijuana, an assault, illegal possession of a weapon, resisting arrest, and forgery.
The community, along with its leaders, has voiced its distress and support for those affected. Televangelist Joel Osteen reflected on the tragedy, affirming the church’s commitment to overcoming this challenge through faith and solidarity.
