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
Koresh in 1987
Born
Vernon Wayne Howell

(1959-08-17)August 17, 1959
Houston, Texas, U.S.
DiedApril 19, 1993(1993-04-19) (aged 33)
Cause of deathGunshot wound to the stomach or fire wounds sustained in the Waco siege
Body discoveredBranch Davidian ranch
McLennan County, Texas, U.S.
Resting placeMemorial Park Cemetery
32°21′23″N 95°22′03″W / 32.35640°N 95.36750°W / 32.35640; -95.36750 (Memorial Park Cemetery)
Occupation(s)Singer, guitarist, religious leader of the Branch Davidians
Known for
SpouseRachel Jones
Children
  • Cyrus Howell
  • Star Howell
  • Bobbie Lane Howell

and 12 others

Parents
  • Bobby Wayne Howell (father)
  • Bonnie Sue Clark (mother)

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.

References

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