Authorities respond to reported shooting near Houston’s Lakewood church
Houston police quickly responded to Lakewood Church after receiving initial reports of possible shots fired around Lakewood Church.
The church confirmed shots were fired, adding, "Please pray for Lakewood and our community."
According to local law enforcement officials, the suspect has been shot and pronounced dead at the scene.
The shooter has been identified as a 30 to 35-year-old female who entered the church around 1:53 p.m. ET. She was holding a long riffle, carrying a backpack, and holding the hand of a small child.
Witnesses say she was claimed to have a bomb in her backpack and was spraying an unknown substance on the church's ground.
Multiple Law enforcement agencies are on-site collaborating on the investigation and will remain on the scene for the next several hours.
They believe this is an isolated incident, and they are conducting a deeper investigation to make sure no one else is inside the church.
Two victims had been taken to the hospital. A 5-year-old- boy is in critical condition and a 57-year-old male is being treated for a hip injury after being shot in the leg.
Several off-duty officers were at the church at the time of the shooting and were able to take the suspect down before she could claim any lives.
Governor Greg Abbott today issued a statement on the shooting near Lakewood church in Houston:
“Our hearts are with those impacted by today’s tragic shooting and the entire Lakewood Church community in Houston. Places of worship are sacred. I have been in contact with Mayor Whitmire and offered the full support and resources of the State of Texas, including Department of Public Safety officers and Texas Rangers, to help this community and help bring swift justice to the criminal who committed this heinous act. Join Cecilia and me in praying for this community during this difficult time and for the brave men and women in blue who acted quickly to respond to this tragedy.”
Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said it is believed that the shooter was shot by a Harris County deputy.
"We also have HCSO deputies who work extra-jobs at the church," he added.
Lakewood Church, founded by Joel and Delores Osteen, is among the largest congregations in the country, averaging about 45,000 attendees per week, according to its website.
Officials set up a reunification center at Lamar high school and are asking people to avoid the area at this time.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
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