Houston, Texas – The recent shooting at the megachurch, Lakewood Church, has left the congregation in shock. The assailant, Genesse Ivonne Moreno, used an AR-15 to open fire, injuring two people before being killed. However, it has now come to light that Moreno had a history of run-ins with the law over firearms offenses.
In an arrest in April 2022, Moreno was found in possession of a weapon, resulting in a two-day jail sentence. The gun was subsequently destroyed, and Moreno pled guilty to the offense in October of the same year. Her criminal record also includes charges related to drugs and assault, dating back to 2009.
The shooting, which occurred during a Spanish language service, left a 7-year-old boy critically injured and another man wounded. Police have revealed that Moreno’s AR-15 bore a Palestine sticker, though they have not classified the incident as a hate crime. Houston Police Chief Troy Finner also mentioned Moreno’s documented mental health history and the devastating potential consequences of her weapon.
The shooting has left witnesses and members of the congregation shaken, with one neighbor describing Moreno as “very mean, very angry.” Authorities reported that she acted alone in the attack. Pastor Joel Osteen expressed his devastation at the incident, calling for unity and faith in the face of darkness.
Ultimately, the shooting at Lakewood Church serves as a chilling reminder of the potential for violence in places of worship. The congregation and the community at large now grapple with the emotional aftermath of the attack, as they seek to find strength in each other and their faith.