Woman who opened fire at Joel Osteen’s megachurch killed by police
On Sunday afternoon, a tragic incident unfolded at Lakewood Church in Houston, home to one of the nation's largest congregations, under the leadership of Pastor Joel Osteen. A female shooter, aged between 30 and 35, entered the church at 1:53 p.m., dressed in a trench coat and carrying a backpack containing a long rifle. Accompanying her was a young child, approximately 4 to 5 years old.
Upon entering, the shooter began firing indiscriminately, prompting a swift response from off-duty officers who were present. They confronted the assailant, ultimately ending her rampage but tragically resulting in her demise. Thankfully, no other lives were lost in the incident.
However, the child accompanying the shooter sustained critical injuries and is currently receiving medical care at Texas Children’s Hospital. Additionally, an unrelated 57-year-old man was wounded in the leg and is undergoing treatment.
In the aftermath of the shooting, authorities conducted a thorough search of the premises and the shooter's belongings, including her vehicle and backpack, in response to her purported bomb threat. Fortunately, no explosives were found.
The motive behind the attack and the identity of the shooter remains undisclosed at this time. The incident occurred just minutes before the commencement of the 2 p.m. Spanish-language service, casting a somber shadow over what should have been a day of spiritual gathering and reflection.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire expressed his condolences and gratitude to the first responders for their swift and coordinated efforts in ensuring the safety of Houstonians. Various law enforcement agencies, including the Harris County Sheriff's Department, Houston Fire Department, and the Houston Police Department, collaborated seamlessly during the response. The off-duty officers who neutralized the threat represented both the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the Houston Police Department.
Located approximately 6 miles outside of downtown Houston, Lakewood Church occupies the former arena of the Houston Rockets. As a nondenominational, evangelical Christian congregation, it draws worshippers from across the nation, both in person and through online platforms.
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