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Church Massacre Marks The Deadliest Shooting in Texas

1947

Sadly, another historic shooting just occurred in the United States. The shooting took place at the First Baptist Church in a small Texas town during service Sunday morning.  The lives of 24 church-goers were taken, 20 people were injured, and it was reported that approximately half of the victims were children.

The gunman was identified as 26-year-old Devin Patrick Kelley who was once part of the US Air Force, but was let go due to misconduct." Kelley began shooting outside of the church at 11:20 am.

First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas. Photo Courtesy of CNN.

Officials say that this was a non-terror attack that potentially could be revolved around a recent domestic dispute Kelley had. During the tragic event, a local had his rifle and began shooting at the gunman. Kelley tried to escape by driving away in his car, but was stopped by Johnnie Langendorff who was simply driving by when all of this was taking place.

Langendorff was on his way to his girlfriend's house when he saw the two men shooting at each other. The shooter then ran to his car and the neighbour notified Langendorff that he was shooting worshipers from outside the church. Langendorff and the other man decided to chase down the shooter while calling 911. Langendorff is considered a hero for stopping the shooting from continuing! The gunman eventually crashed into a ditch and he was found dead in his vehicle from a gunshot wound.

Johnnie Langendorff. Photo Courtesy of ABC News.

Following the shooting, residents living in Sutherland Springs came together at a vigil, embracing one another with hugs, lighting candles, and singing hymns. Prayers and thoughts go out to the victims of this tragic event that transpired in such a close-knit Texas town.

By: Alaina Pawlowicz

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