Recently released videos depict the moments leading up to and during Genesse Moreno’s shooting spree at Lakewood Church earlier this month. The incident, which took place on Feb. 11, unfolded as the 36-year-old woman entered the megachurch, initiated gunfire, and was confronted by two off-duty officers. These officers, one from the Houston Police Department and the other from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, responded by exchanging fire with Moreno, resulting in her death.
Moreno had brought her 7-year-old son, Samuel, to the church, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head during the altercation and was subsequently hospitalized in critical condition.
Body camera footage released by the Houston police captured the intense moments as the two off-duty officers engaged Moreno. Additionally, the footage revealed blurred images of Moreno’s young son and the urgent calls for medical assistance after he was shot.
Security camera footage from Lakewood Church displayed Moreno’s arrival in a white SUV with her son before the shooting. Gunshots rang out throughout the church as officers swiftly responded to the situation.
Authorities reported that Moreno entered the church between Sunday services with her son and began firing an AR-style rifle. She did not reach the main sanctuary and was fatally shot by the officers. Two individuals, including Moreno’s son, sustained injuries during the incident.
Amid the chaos, officers inside the church faced the challenge of confronting Moreno, who was armed with a rifle, while armed only with pistols, giving her a tactical advantage.
Despite Moreno’s claims of possessing a bomb, no explosives were found at the scene. Houston Police Chief Troy Finner acknowledged that the footage might be unsettling to the community and emphasized that the investigation remained active.
Investigators continue to seek answers regarding Moreno’s motive and the source of the AR-style rifle she used. Meanwhile, updates on Samuel’s condition have provided some hope for recovery, although the extent of his injuries and long-term prognosis remain uncertain.
