Houston, Texas – Two people were shot on Sunday at Lakewood Church, and the shooter was killed by off-duty officers who were present at the church. According to police, the shooter was identified as Genesse Ivonne Moreno, 36. She entered the church with a child and a long rifle, opening fire before being killed by the off-duty officers. The child was also shot and is in critical condition at the hospital.
Houston Police Chief Troy Finner reported that a 57-year-old man, an innocent bystander, was also shot in the leg during the incident. The shooter arrived at the church in a white vehicle and entered from the west side of the parking lot. Before her death, Moreno claimed to have a bomb, but after a thorough search of the church, the vehicle, and the backpack, no evidence of explosives was found. Moreno also sprayed a substance on the ground, the identity of which remains unknown.
A criminal history search revealed that Moreno has a history dating back to 2005 and previously identified as Jeffery Escalante. Her prior arrests include assault, forgery, marijuana possession, theft, evading arrest, and unlawful carrying of a weapon. The motive behind the shooting is still unknown, leaving authorities and the public puzzled about what led to this tragic event.
The presence of off-duty officers at the church highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence and the importance of law enforcement in addressing such incidents. The quick response of the officers likely prevented further casualties and underscores the need for increased security measures at public venues. In the wake of this shooting, the community is left grappling with the aftermath as authorities continue to investigate the incident and search for potential motives behind Moreno’s actions.