Texas Lt. Gov. Credits Church Security Team, Change in State Law After Gunman Is Quickly Shot

In this still frame from livestreamed video provided by law enforcement, churchgoers take cover while a congregant armed with a handgun, top left, engages a man who opened fire, near top center just right of windows, during a service at West Freeway Church of Christ in White Settlement, Texas, on Dec. 29, 2019. West Freeway Church of Christ/Courtesy of Law Enforcement via AP

Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick praised the church security team that helped stop a mass shooting on Dec. 29 and noted that a state law passed earlier this year made clear that gun owners with conceal carry licenses could carry firearms in churches.

“Our hearts are heavy today as we pray for the victims of this tragic shooting, their families, this church, and this community. But we are also grateful and thankful for the unparalleled heroism of two parishioners who were determined to protect the people in their church community,” Patrick said during a press conference on Dec. 29, hours after the shooting at the West Freeway Church of Christ in the Fort Worth area.