Woman's Warning Signals Prior to Texas Church Shooting Unaddressed

Tragic Shooting at Houston Megachurch Raises Concerns

A tragic shooting at a Houston megachurch has left two wounded and raised questions about the mental health and gun regulations. The former mother-in-law of the perpetrator, Genesse Moreno, revealed that she had taken multiple steps to warn authorities and the church about Moreno's mental health struggles. Walli Carranza, the former mother-in-law, stated that she attempted to alert various parties about Moreno's condition but to no avail. This revelation sheds light on potential systemic failures and lax gun laws that may have contributed to the tragic events at Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church.

A Cry for Help Unheeded

Carranza's efforts to raise concerns about her ex-daughter-in-law's mental health spanned years, with reports to church staff and authorities going unheeded. She emphasized that her actions were driven by a desire to prevent the tragedy that ultimately unfolded on Sunday. The shooting occurred when Moreno entered the church with her 7-year-old son and opened fire, resulting in injuries to two individuals, including her own son who was shot in the head. The subsequent exchange of gunfire with security officers resulted in Moreno's death.

Faulty Systems and Unanswered Questions

Carranza emphasized the importance of addressing systemic failures and the need for better mental health support. Moreover, she highlighted her concerns about lax gun regulations that may have enabled Moreno to acquire the AR-style rifle used in the shooting. Despite the gravity of the situation, crucial details such as Moreno's motive and how she obtained the firearm remain unknown.

Struggles and Warnings

In addition to raising concerns about Moreno's mental health, Carranza disclosed the troubled history of Moreno's marriage to her son, Enrique Carranza, who reportedly strove to support his ex-wife's recovery. Worryingly, reports to Child Protective Services regarding Moreno's behavior, including allegations of putting adult medication in her son's feeding tube and leaving guns unattended in her home, did not result in any action being taken.

Efforts to Seek Intervention

Carranza's attorney made concerted efforts to involve Lakewood Church in assisting with Moreno's struggles, as it was believed that Moreno's mother attended the church. However, the church's spokesperson, Don Iloff, indicated that while records show Moreno sporadically attended services, there is no evidence of her presence at the church after 2022. Furthermore, the alleged emails from Carranza's attorney did not yield any records within the church. Iloff revealed that the church's support primarily extends to spiritual and biblical counseling, which they were prepared to offer should Moreno have accepted it.

Moving Forward

In response to the tragic events, celebrity pastor Joel Osteen extended an invitation for a special service at the church to facilitate healing and restoration. Osteen emphasized the community's resilience in the face of adversity and encouraged individuals to turn to faith in such difficult times.

Challenges in Legislation and Law Enforcement

The case also raises questions about the legal framework, as Moreno's extensive list of misdemeanors did not trigger a ban on firearm ownership in Texas. It was revealed that the state lacks a "red flag" law, which could potentially aid in preventing such tragedies by allowing the seizure of firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.

Seeking Answers

As the investigation continues, Carranza met with FBI agents to discuss the reports she filed over the years regarding Moreno's behavior. The unfolding events at Lakewood Church underscore the need for a comprehensive review of mental health support, gun regulations, and the collective responsibility to prevent such tragic incidents.