David Koresh
American religious sect leader of Branch Davidians (1959-1993)
David Koresh (born Vernon Wayne Howell; August 17, 1959 – April 19, 1993) was the American leader of the Branch Davidians religious sect. The FBI said that Branch Davidian Steve Schneider shot and killed Koresh, then committed suicide, on April 19, 1993 at the cult's compound. He was responsible for the Waco siege.
David Koresh | |
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Born | Vernon Wayne Howell August 17, 1959 |
Died | April 19, 1993 | (aged 33)
Cause of death | Gunshot wound to the stomach or fire wounds sustained in the Waco siege |
Body discovered | Branch Davidian ranch McLennan County, Texas, U.S. |
Resting place | Memorial Park Cemetery 32°21′23″N 95°22′03″W / 32.35640°N 95.36750°W |
Occupation(s) | Singer, guitarist, religious leader of the Branch Davidians |
Known for |
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Spouse | Rachel Jones |
Children |
and 12 others |
Parents |
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Koresh was born on August 17, 1959 in Houston, Texas to a 15-year-old single mother, Bonnie Sue Clark. In 1982 he joined the Branch Davidians.