The identity of the perpetrator responsible for the gunfire at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas, has been disclosed by local authorities.
Fox News confirms that the shooter was Genesse Ivonne Moreno. Moreno, formerly known as Jeffrey Escalante and hailing from El Salvador, was fatally shot by off-duty police officers who responded to the incident.
According to a search warrant, Moreno brandished an AR-15 at the officers, leading to their act of self-defense resulting in her demise.
Notably, investigators discovered the phrase “Free Palestine” inscribed on the rifle used in the attack. Prior to transitioning, the 36-year-old Moreno had a criminal history, which included convictions for assaulting a police officer in 2009 and forgery in 2010.
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Scheduled for 1:30 p.m. local time, Houston’s mayor, along with the police department and other relevant agencies, are set to conduct a news briefing on the matter.
A collaborative effort involving members of the FBI, the Texas Rangers, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the Conroe and Houston Police Departments, has been underway, with investigations focused on a property in Conroe, situated north of Houston, believed to be Moreno’s residence, as reported by KPRC.
The incident occurred on a Sunday afternoon preceding the 2 p.m. Spanish service at the Houston megachurch. Moreno entered the church armed with a long rifle, clad in a trench coat and backpack, accompanied by a 5-year-old child, as described by Houston Police Chief Troy Finner. Following the gunfire initiated by the shooter, off-duty officers present at the scene intervened, engaging in a confrontation that ultimately led to Moreno’s death.
In addition to Moreno, two individuals sustained injuries during the altercation—an injured 57-year-old man and the child accompanying the shooter.
The child, who remains in critical condition at a children’s hospital, is unfortunately not expected to survive, as conveyed by a spokesperson from the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office to the Houston Chronicle.
Joel Osteen expressed gratitude towards law enforcement during a press conference, lamenting the tragic incident, stating, “We don’t understand why all these things happened, but we know God’s in control.” Texas Governor Greg Abbott also commented on the shooting, labeling it as “tragic.” Nevertheless, the motive behind Moreno’s actions remains unclear, leaving authorities and the community puzzled.
As the investigation continues and details unfold, the community grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence. The presence of law enforcement and collaborative efforts among various agencies signal a commitment to uncovering the truth behind the incident.
Meanwhile, the devastating impact on the injured individuals and their families underscores the urgency for answers and resolution in the wake of this tragedy.
