Police have identified the perpetrator of the Lakewood Church shooting as 36-year-old Genesse Ivonne Moreno. Moreno, described as a “lone wolf,” allegedly brought her seven-year-old son to the church before carrying out the assault using an AR-15 rifle bearing the word “Palestine.”
Law enforcement officials disclosed details during a press conference held the day after the incident. Moreno arrived at the church around 1:53 pm with her son, where she allegedly brandished her weapon at a security guard to gain entry. Shortly after, she began firing multiple rounds in the hallway.
Two off-duty police officers responded to the scene, engaging in a gun battle with Moreno. During the exchange, Moreno’s son sustained a gunshot wound to the head, and another individual, a 57-year-old man, was shot in the leg. Moreno was fatally shot by law enforcement.
While authorities have recovered weapons and identified possible motives, including familial disputes, they caution against premature conclusions. The investigation is ongoing, with no established link between Moreno and the church.
Officials commend the bravery of the officers involved, emphasizing their role in preventing further casualties. The swift response is credited with averting a larger tragedy at the renowned megachurch led by Pastor Joel Osteen.
Houston Police Department encourages anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation progresses.
Credit: Independent