A tragic shooting incident unfolded at the Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky, on Sunday, leaving two women dead and two men injured, including a police officer. The suspect was fatally shot by responding officers after fleeing the initial encounter, according to CNN reports citing officials.
The violence began around 11:35 AM ET when a state trooper stopped a vehicle near Terminal Drive, close to Blue Grass Airport, after receiving a license plate reader alert. During the stop, the suspect opened fire on the officer and then fled, carjacking another vehicle and driving approximately 15 miles to the Richmond Road Baptist Church.
Upon arriving at the church, the suspect opened fire on churchgoers. Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers stated that early investigations suggest the shooter may have had personal ties to individuals at the church but declined to provide further details.
Three police officers responded and fatally shot the suspect on-site. The suspect’s identity has been determined but is withheld pending family notification.
The deceased have been identified as:
- Beverly Gumm (72)
- Christina Combs (34)
Two men were injured in the church shooting — one critically and the other in stable condition. The injured trooper is also reported to be stable.
According to Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn, the Richmond Road Baptist Church is a close-knit community, and family members were quickly informed. A sermon was being livestreamed on Facebook during the shooting.
- Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear urged prayers for the victims and praised law enforcement for their swift response.
- US Representative Andy Barr and Attorney General Russell Coleman condemned the violence, with Coleman calling it an attack on “law enforcement and people of faith.”
- Senator Rand Paul expressed sorrow, stating that such violence “has no place in Kentucky.”
Although the shooting was not directly related to Blue Grass Airport, it temporarily affected parts of Terminal Drive. Airport authorities have since resumed normal operations and are assisting travelers.
The motive for the attack remains under investigation as authorities continue to gather information and speak with those involved.
