Richard Neil "Rich" White, a 67-year-old man from Fort Worth, Texas, tragically lost his life on December 29, 2019. He was fatally wounded during a shooting at the West Freeway Church of Christ in White Settlement, Texas, which is located near Fort Worth. White was a member of the church's volunteer security team and was trying to protect fellow congregants when he was shot.
Alongside him, church deacon Anton "Tony" Wallace, aged 64, also lost his life in the incident.
The shooter, identified as Keith Thomas Kinnunen, a 43-year-old transient with a lengthy criminal record, opened fire during the Sunday worship service. White and Wallace were killed as they attempted to confront the gunman. However, Jack Wilson, another member of the church's security team, acted swiftly and shot Kinnunen, stopping the attack and preventing further casualties.
White was remembered as a hero who sacrificed his life to save many others. His actions, along with those of Wilson, were credited with preventing a larger tragedy. The incident highlighted the importance of security measures in places of worship and led to discussions about the need for armed protection in churches.
No arrests or suspects were mentioned in relation to White's death, as the shooter was killed on the spot by Wilson. There were no ongoing litigations or investigations related to the incident, as it was resolved with the immediate neutralization of the threat.
White's family and the community mourned his loss, praising his bravery and dedication to protecting others. His wife, Glenda Kasterke-White, and their children and grandchildren were left to grieve his untimely death. The church and the wider community honored his memory, recognizing him as a true hero who stood up against evil and sacrificed his life for the safety of others.
