Lexington, Kentucky, was rocked by a series of violent events on Sunday, July 13, 2025, that left two women dead at a church and three others, including a state trooper, injured. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released pending family notification, was shot and killed by law enforcement, bringing an end to the harrowing spree.
The incident began around 11:35 a.m. ET near the Blue Grass Airport. A Kentucky State Trooper initiated a traffic stop on Terminal Drive after receiving an alert from a license plate reader. During the stop, the suspect opened fire, shooting and wounding the trooper, according to CNN and ABC News. The injured trooper is reported to be in stable condition and is receiving medical treatment.
Following the initial shooting, the suspect carjacked a vehicle and fled the scene, leading law enforcement on a pursuit. The chase concluded approximately 15 to 16 miles away at the Richmond Road Baptist Church in southwest Lexington, as reported by BBC News and CBS News. Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers stated during a news conference that the suspect “fired his weapon at individuals on church property.”
The attack at the church resulted in the tragic deaths of two women: Beverly Gum, 72, and Christina Combs, 32, as confirmed by the Fayette County coroner. Two men were also shot and injured on church grounds. One of the male victims is in critical condition, while the other is stable, according to officials. Preliminary information suggests that the suspect may have had a connection to individuals at the church. Coroner Gary Ginn noted that Richmond Road Baptist Church is a small, tight-knit community, with a majority of attendees being either related or close friends.
The violent rampage ended when three responding officers engaged the suspect, who was then shot and pronounced dead at the scene. The Kentucky State Police and the department’s Public Integrity Unit are conducting an investigation into the incident.
Kentucky officials quickly responded to the news, offering condolences and praising the swift actions of law enforcement. Governor Andy Beshear expressed his heartbreak and urged residents to pray for all affected. “Please pray for everyone affected by these senseless acts of violence, and let’s give thanks for the swift response by the Lexington Police Department and Kentucky State Police,” Governor Beshear posted on X, a sentiment echoed by PBS NewsHour.
Other state leaders also weighed in. U.S. Representative Andy Barr stated, “Praying for the Kentucky State Trooper injured today and all parishioners injured at Richmond Road Baptist Church. I’m monitoring this situation very closely and I’m grateful for the State Police and first responders involved in responding.” Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman remarked on the profound impact, saying, “Today, violence invaded the Lord’s House. The attack on law enforcement and people of faith in Lexington shocked the entire Commonwealth.” Senator Rand Paul added, “Saddened to hear about the tragic shootings… Violence like this has no place in Kentucky.”
Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers acknowledged the community’s shock, stating, “Something like this has a huge impact on our community. Sometimes things happen [and] we just don’t have a reason why. But we are going to be here for the people of Lexington.” Authorities have temporarily closed roads in the vicinity of the church as the investigation continues, promising to provide more information as it becomes available.
