Shooting at Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church leaves two injured and suspect dead

A shooting incident at Lakewood Church, led by well-known pastor Joel Osteen, has resulted in two people being injured and the suspect being killed, according to authorities in Texas. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon, during the scheduled time for the Spanish language church service.

Police Chief Troy Finner provided details about the shooting during a press conference. The suspect, a woman, entered the church carrying a long rifle. She was dressed in a trench coat and had a backpack with her. Shockingly, the suspect was accompanied by a young child, estimated to be 4 to 5 years old.

The shooting began at approximately 1:53 p.m., prompting off-duty officers at the scene to engage with the woman and return fire. The suspect was pronounced dead immediately. The police chief also revealed that the suspect had claimed to have a bomb. Authorities searched her vehicle, backpack, and the area but found no explosives. The suspect had also been spraying an unknown substance on the ground.

As a result of the shooting, a 57-year-old man was shot in the leg, and the child the suspect had brought along was also injured. The child remains in critical condition.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez initially reported the death of the shooter on social media, clarifying that his deputies did not fire any shots during the incident. Other law enforcement agencies were involved in the shooting.

Shortly after the incident, Lakewood Church confirmed the shooting and requested prayers for the church and the community. Texas Governor Greg Abbott expressed his condolences, describing the incident as "tragic" in a press release, and emphasized that places of worship are sacred.

Authorities have stated that the shooting appears to be an isolated incident and believe there is no further threat to the public. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Harris County Sheriff's Office and the Houston Police Department for their comments on the matter.

The community is left in shock following the shooting at Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church, as prayers and support pour in for those affected by this tragic event.