The incident that took place on Sunday at Pastor Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston shocked the nation, but it could have been far more catastrophic if not for the heroic actions of two off-duty police officers. The shooter, identified as 36-year-old Genesse Moreno, was killed by the officers, but unfortunately, her 7-year-old son was also caught in the crossfire and remains in critical condition. Another member of the congregation, a 57-year-old man, sustained injuries but has since been released from the hospital.

While the outcome could have been worse, it has led many to question whether this tragedy could have been prevented altogether. Moreno had a troubling criminal history, including convictions for assault and unlawful carrying of a weapon. Additionally, she had a documented record of mental illness and was previously detained under an emergency detention order in 2016 due to a court’s determination that she posed a significant risk of harm to herself and others. Moreno’s mother-in-law revealed that she suffered from schizophrenia, further highlighting her mental health struggles.

Residents of Conroe, the suburb where Moreno resided, had repeatedly reported her erratic behavior to the police and city officials in the months leading up to the shooting. They expressed fear for their safety, as Moreno’s harassment and threats, which sometimes involved brandishing firearms, made it difficult for them to feel secure even within the confines of their own yards.

Surprisingly, despite her troubled history and concerning behavior, authorities believe Moreno was able to legally obtain the AR-style semiautomatic rifle she used in the attack. The Conroe Police Department defended their actions, stating that they handled the previous calls regarding Moreno appropriately and in accordance with the law. However, it is worth noting that Texas law does not consider misdemeanor convictions as a barrier to firearm purchase and ownership. Furthermore, the state lacks a “red flag” law that could expedite the process of obtaining a court order to temporarily seize firearms from individuals with mental health issues who pose a threat.

Despite the efforts of Moreno’s vigilant neighbors and the police’s adherence to existing regulations, this incident highlights the need for lawmakers in Austin to take action. Balancing the protection of law-abiding citizens’ Second Amendment rights with the maintenance of public safety is crucial. However, it is equally important to equip law enforcement with the necessary legal tools to effectively address clear threats to public safety. Additionally, the public deserves the reassurance that their calls for help will not go unanswered.