A gunman shot a state trooper during a traffic stop, carjacked a vehicle, and then drove to a church where he killed two women and wounded two men in Lexington, Kentucky. The suspect, who was later shot dead by law enforcement, had a potential connection to the church, though the investigation is ongoing.
The incident began shortly before noon when a state trooper pulled the suspect over for a license plate reader alert. According to Lexington Police Department Chief Lawrence Weathers, the suspect opened fire, injuring the trooper. The traffic stop occurred on Terminal Drive, just outside Blue Grass Airport, though the situation was unrelated to the airport itself. Weathers noted that some individuals en route to the airport exited their vehicles and assisted the trooper, expressing appreciation for their actions. The trooper is currently in stable condition and receiving medical treatment.
After the initial confrontation, the suspect carjacked a vehicle, with no injuries reported in the process. Law enforcement then utilized the department’s Air Support Unit and Real-Time Intelligence Center to track the suspect’s movements to Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington. Upon arrival, the suspect opened fire on church property, killing two women and wounding two men. The victims were identified as Beverly Gumm, 72, and Christina Combs, 32. One man was in critical condition, while the other was stable. Weathers indicated that investigators are examining whether the suspect had a connection to the church, though the probe is still in its early stages.
The suspect was shot dead by responding law enforcement officers at the scene, with Weathers confirming that three Lexington police officers fired their service weapons in accordance with the department’s policies. The officers involved will now be placed on administrative assignment pending the outcome of the investigation. In the aftermath, Senator Rand Paul expressed his condolences on X, stating, “I am saddened to hear about the tragic shootings. Kelley and I are praying for all the victims, the injured trooper, and their families. Violence like this has no place.” Governor Andy Beshear also shared a message on X, requesting prayers for the victims and expressing gratitude for the swift response by the Lexington Police Department and Kentucky State Police.
This incident has sparked renewed discussions about gun control and public safety in the region, with community leaders and officials encouraging vigilance and support for those affected. The case is currently under investigation by the Lexington Police Department with assistance from state and federal authorities. As the investigation continues, officials remain committed to providing updates and support to the families and community impacted by the tragedy.