A woman armed with a long rifle and accompanied by a young child entered Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in what is believed to have been an attempted mass shooting. Two off-duty law enforcement officers engaged the woman and fatally shot her, preventing a potentially catastrophic event. Unfortunately, a 5-year-old child was hit and is in critical condition at a local hospital. A 57-year-old man who was not believed to be connected to the incident was also shot in the leg and is receiving treatment in the hospital.
The woman had also threatened she “had a bomb,” but authorities found no explosives in her vehicle or backpack. Lakewood Church confirmed reports of “shots fired” and mentioned that law enforcement was on the scene. Speaking at a news conference, Joel Osteen, the pastor, expressed relief that the incident took place in between services, likely preventing further injuries and damage. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott expressed condolences and stated that places of worship are sacred. The White House is tracking the shooting and working to obtain more information as this is a developing story.
Overall, this harrowing incident at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church was averted from turning into a mass shooting due to the quick and brave action of two off-duty law enforcement officers. The community is reeling from the event, especially as a 5-year-old child is in critical condition as a result. The incident is currently under investigation, with both law enforcement officers placed on administrative leave. The lack of explosives found in the woman’s possession is a small comfort in the face of such a terrifying situation, and the actions of law enforcement likely saved many lives.
