The Mount Carmel Center near Axtell, Texas, was formerly occupied by the Branch Davidian religious group. Initially, the Branch Davidians lived peacefully and were accepted by the nearby Waco community. Their relative isolation ended in 1987 with a shootout between factions led by George Roden and Vernon Howell, who later became David Koresh. Under Koresh's leadership, the group adopted radical beliefs, including stockpiling weapons and Koresh's claims of divine instruction to procreate and prepare for the end times. He presented himself as a final prophet and engaged in relationships, including with underage girls, fathering numerous children. In February 1993, a federal warrant execution attempt led to a firefight with ATF agents, resulting in deaths on both sides and initiating a 51-day siege. The siege concluded on April 19, 1993, when a fire broke out, killing 76 Branch Davidians, many of whom were children. The original compound was demolished shortly after the siege. A new Branch Davidian community, "The Branch, The Lord Our Righteousness," now exists on the site, featuring a chapel, memorial, and wellness center. Access to the current site is regulated and requires a donation.