John Cheng

Dr. John Cheng, a 52-year-old physician from Laguna Woods, California, tragically lost his life on May 15, 2022, during a mass shooting at Geneva Presbyterian Church. Dr. Cheng was attending a lunch banquet organized by the Taiwanese congregation to honor a former pastor when the incident occurred. As the gunman, identified as 68-year-old David Chou from Las Vegas, opened fire, Dr. Cheng heroically charged at him in an attempt to disarm him. This brave act allowed other parishioners to intervene and ultimately subdue the shooter. Unfortunately, Dr. Cheng was shot multiple times and succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His actions, however, were credited with preventing further casualties, as the shooter had chained the doors and intended to cause more harm.

David Chou, the suspect, was arrested at the scene and later charged with one count of murder and five counts of attempted murder. Authorities revealed that Chou's attack was politically motivated, stemming from his grievances against the Taiwanese community. The FBI's investigation indicated that Chou harbored deep-seated hatred towards Taiwanese people, which fueled his violent actions. The Orange County District Attorney praised Dr. Cheng's selfless actions, emphasizing that his sacrifice saved many lives.

In the aftermath of the shooting, the community mourned the loss of Dr. Cheng, who was remembered as a dedicated physician specializing in sports medicine and a beloved member of the community. His death prompted discussions about hate crimes and the need for increased security measures in places of worship. The legal proceedings against David Chou are ongoing, with the charges reflecting the severity of his actions and the impact on the victims and their families. Dr. Cheng's legacy as a hero who gave his life to protect others continues to be honored by those who knew him and the broader community.