In a chilling update, Houston Police Chief Troy Finner disclosed on Monday afternoon that a 7-year-old child, caught in the crossfire as his mother unleashed gunfire amidst congregants at Lakewood Church’s Spanish-speaking service a day earlier, is now battling for his life. The announcement came as Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Chief Finner provided a comprehensive update on the investigation, precisely 24 hours post the harrowing incident.

The injured child, whose mother was identified as the assailant, remains in critical condition, while a 57-year-old man, also struck by gunfire, has been discharged from medical care.

Mayor Whitmire shed light on the suspect’s mental health, noting its potential role in the early stages of the inquiry. The assailant, identified as 36-year-old Genesse Ivonne Moreno, raised concerns about how she acquired firearms despite her mental health background. Shockingly, investigations revealed that the rifle utilized in the shooting had been legally obtained in December.

Overnight, first responders meticulously combed through evidence, with Houston Fire Department Chief Samuel Peña assuring that hazardous materials tests yielded no risk of chemical exposure during the church rampage.

Authorities seized two weapons from the scene, notably an AR-15 rifle adorned with a pro-Palestinian message, underscoring a possible political or ideological motive. Anti-Semitic writings were also recovered, hinting at deeper-rooted tensions, possibly linked to a dispute with Moreno’s ex-husband’s Jewish relatives.

Police clarified that Moreno acted alone, stressing that her family did not attend Lakewood’s services. Nonetheless, the incident has reignited concerns about security in places of worship, prompting plans for enhanced protective measures.

The FBI has joined forces with Houston Police in the ongoing investigation, although a definitive motive remains elusive at this stage.

According to the timeline provided by authorities, Moreno, clutching her young child and a bag containing a .22 caliber rifle, confronted a security officer at 1:53 p.m. on Sunday, demanding entry. Just two minutes later, she opened fire indiscriminately, injuring her own child and sparking a frantic exchange of gunfire with responding officers, resulting in her demise.

The incident unfolded amidst a packed congregation at Lakewood Church, with thousands of worshippers witnessing the chaos, underscoring the gravity of the tragedy.

As investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with pertinent information to come forward, as the community grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act of violence.

During a press conference held on Sunday, authorities confirmed the demise of the shooter involved in the incident at Lakewood Church. The altercation, which ensued in gunfire between responding officers and the suspect, resulted in critical injuries to a five-year-old child. The child has been rushed to Texas Children’s Hospital for medical attention.

Houston Police Chief Troy Finner addressed the media outside Lakewood Church, revealing that the suspect was identified as a woman aged between 30 and 35. According to Chief Finner, the assailant entered the premises through a western entrance at approximately 1:53 p.m. The suspect, carrying a long gun and adorned in a trench coat and backpack, was accompanied by a small child, estimated to be around four or five years old.

The woman was subdued by two off-duty officers stationed at the church, one of whom was a veteran Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission officer, and the other a 28-year-old HPD officer. Following the exchange of gunfire, the woman purportedly claimed to possess a bomb, as relayed by Chief Finner. However, subsequent searches of her person and vehicle yielded no explosives. Additionally, it was reported that the woman sprayed a substance on the ground before succumbing to her injuries.

Another casualty of the firefight was a 57-year-old man, who sustained injuries but is reported to be in stable condition after receiving medical attention.

Chief Finner commended the swift action of the officers involved, stating, “[The suspect] had a long gun, and it could’ve been a lot worse. But [officers] stepped up and did their job.”

Joining Chief Finner at the press conference were Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Lakewood pastor Joel Osteen. Mayor Whitmire emphasized the coordinated efforts of various departments in responding to the incident, reassuring Houstonians of their safety. He urged citizens to embrace their loved ones amidst the unsettling events.

The incident at Lakewood Church underscores the importance of preparedness and collaboration among law enforcement agencies in ensuring public safety. As investigations continue into the motive behind the shooting, the community remains resilient in the face of adversity.