As authorities investigate the motives behind Genesse Moreno’s shooting rampage at Lakewood Church, they commend two officers for swiftly halting her assault.
Ron Crowel, the former director of security at the megachurch, disclosed that he implemented a comprehensive mass shooting plan about a decade ago, which included designated areas to secure children and initiate lockdown procedures in the event of an active shooter.
During his tenure, Crowel ensured the presence of at least a dozen officers from various local agencies every Sunday, along with approximately 100 volunteer unarmed security guards referred to as “ministry assistants.”
Law enforcement officials attributed the quick response of officers to saving lives, emphasizing the crucial role of police presence during the incident.
At a press conference, Houston police investigators revealed that Moreno entered the church armed with an AR-15 and a .22-caliber rifle, initiating gunfire after encountering a security guard. However, off-duty officers, including HPD Officer Christopher Moreno and Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission Officer Adrian Herrera, swiftly neutralized the threat.
Both officers, unharmed in the incident, are currently on paid leave as per standard procedure following such incidents.
“These two officers held their ground. They faced rifle fire at point-blank range and continued to engage until the perpetrator was neutralized. They showed remarkable courage and did not back down,” remarked TABC Chairman Kevin Lilly.
Despite attempts to reach out to Lakewood Church and its head of security, no response has been received as of yet.
