Tragedy in Lexington: Gunman Fatally Shoots 2 at Church After Wounding State Trooper
On the morning of July 13, 2025, around 11:35 a.m., a state trooper on Terminal Drive—just outside Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky—pulled over a vehicle after a license‑plate reader flagged it. The driver suddenly opened fire, striking the trooper and seriously wounding them. Fortunately, bystanders rushed to help until backup arrived. The trooper was taken to a local hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
Flight and Carjacking
After shooting the officer, the suspect fled the scene, allegedly carjacking another vehicle nearby. No one was injured during the carjacking, and authorities used air support and real‑time intelligence to track the suspect’s route.
Sanctuary Shattered
The suspect drove to Richmond Road Baptist Church, about 15 miles away, and began firing on congregants during service. Two women, aged 32 (identified as Christina Combs) and 72 (Beverly Gumm), were killed. In addition, two men were shot—one critically, and the other in stable condition.
The Confrontation
Lexington police and Kentucky State Police officers responded swiftly. In the ensuing confrontation, three officers fired at the suspect, who was killed at the scene. Police also noted that the suspect may have had personal ties to the church, although details remain under investigation.
Community Response and Leadership Reaction
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, rattled by the incident, urged residents to pray for the victims and their families and to show support for the injured trooper. Attorney General Russell Coleman and Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers both emphasized that this kind of violence—targeting places of worship and law enforcement—is unacceptable and will be thoroughly investigated.
Chief Weathers confirmed the individuals shot at the church are receiving medical treatment, with roads near the church and airport temporarily closed for safety. The Kentucky State Police’s critical incident response team is leading the inquiry, and the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave.
What We Know — and Don’t
– The suspect’s name and motive have not been disclosed, pending family notification.
– Authorities are investigating whether the suspect had a connection with church members and how or why the violence unfolded at a place of worship.
– The trooper, though wounded, is expected to recover.
An attack unfolding in two locations—including a church, a traditionally safe place—underscores the unpredictable nature of modern violence. The rapid law enforcement response possibly prevented more casualties. Still, the community must now grapple with shock, mourning, and a pressing need to understand how to safeguard both public servants and places of worship.
