LEXINGTON, Ky. — On Sunday, July 13, 2025, a violent series of events unfolded in Lexington, Kentucky, leaving two women dead, a Kentucky State Police (KSP) trooper injured, and a suspect fatally shot. The tragic incident began with a traffic stop near Lexington’s airport and escalated to a deadly confrontation at Richmond Road Baptist Church, a small and tightly-knit community church.
The Series of Events: The Initial Traffic Stop
The violent series of events began shortly after 11:30 a.m., when a Kentucky State Trooper conducted a routine traffic stop in Fayette County. The trooper had received an alert from a license plate reader, which led him to stop a vehicle near Lexington’s airport. However, during the traffic stop, the situation quickly turned violent. The suspect, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, opened fire on the trooper, injuring him.
The KSP trooper was struck by the gunfire but managed to survive the encounter. Authorities confirmed that the trooper is now in stable condition after receiving medical treatment at a local hospital. The suspect, after shooting the trooper, fled the scene and began a series of violent actions that would escalate throughout the day.
The Carjacking and Journey to Richmond Road Baptist Church
Following the shooting, the suspect’s actions became even more violent. The suspect reportedly carjacked a vehicle in the 3700 block of Belleau Wood Drive, using it as his means of escape. Law enforcement officers from the Lexington Police Department (LPD) and Kentucky State Police (KSP) began tracking the stolen vehicle, using real-time intelligence to monitor the suspect’s movements.
The suspect’s journey ultimately led him to Richmond Road Baptist Church, a small church located on Old Richmond Road, where the tragic incident would unfold. At approximately 12:30 p.m., law enforcement officers responded to reports of gunfire at the church. They arrived to find that the suspect had opened fire at the church, resulting in the deaths of two women.
The Victims: Beverly Gumm and Kristina Combs
The two victims killed in the shooting at Richmond Road Baptist Church were identified by the Fayette County Coroner as Beverly Gumm, 72, and Kristina Combs, 32. Both women were well-known members of the church community, which is described as close-knit and primarily made up of families and long-time friends.
Beverly Gumm, a long-time member of the church, was described as gentle, kind, and devoted to the community. She had contributed extensively to church events and programs over the years. Her passing has left a significant hole in the hearts of the church members who knew and loved her.
Kristina Combs, also a dedicated member of the church, was known for her warmth, compassion, and commitment to her faith. Her tragic death, alongside Beverly’s, has shocked the Richmond Road Baptist Church congregation, which now faces the grief of losing two beloved individuals.
The Shootings at the Church and Law Enforcement Response
After the suspect opened fire at the church, several church members were injured, and the emergency response was swift. Two men were shot during the attack, and both were taken to local hospitals for treatment. One of the victims remains in critical condition, while the other is in stable condition.
Law enforcement officers from both Lexington Police and Kentucky State Police quickly arrived at the scene and confronted the suspect. Three officers engaged in a shootout with the suspect, ultimately fatally wounding him. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene.
It is still unclear whether the suspect’s death was the result of police action or a self-inflicted gunshot wound. However, Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers confirmed that the officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol during investigations involving officer-involved shootings.
Ongoing Investigation and Motive
The Lexington Police Department and Kentucky State Police are actively investigating the shooting. Authorities have stated that the suspect’s identity is being withheld pending notification of his family. Investigators are also working to determine the motive behind the shootings and whether there was any personal connection between the suspect and the victims at the church.
Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect may have had a personal connection to individuals at Richmond Road Baptist Church, although this has not been confirmed. Law enforcement is reviewing surveillance footage, speaking to witnesses, and gathering evidence to piece together the full timeline of events.
Governor Beshear’s Statement and Public Response
Governor Andy Beshear responded to the tragedy in a social media statement, offering his condolences to the victims’ families and expressing his appreciation for the swift actions of law enforcement officers. He wrote, “Please pray for everyone affected by these senseless acts of violence. Let’s give thanks for the swift response by the Lexington Police Department and Kentucky State Police.”
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman also expressed his support, noting, “This is a tragic reminder of the danger law enforcement faces every day. Today, violence invaded the Lord’s House, and we must work together to ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families.”
Law Enforcement’s Swift Response and Public Safety Concerns
The quick and coordinated response by Lexington Police and Kentucky State Police was praised by officials. The officers acted quickly to prevent further harm, and their response helped to mitigate what could have been an even more devastating incident.
Despite the tragedy, law enforcement agencies emphasized the importance of community cooperation and vigilance in such circumstances. Officials called on the public to remain patient as the investigation continues and to provide any information that could help clarify the motive behind the shootings.
The Local Community in Mourning
The Lexington community has been deeply affected by the events of July 13, 2025. Richmond Road Baptist Church, a small, family-oriented congregation, now finds itself grappling with the tragic loss of two of its most beloved members, Beverly Gumm and Kristina Combs.
As the church community mourns the loss of these two women, plans are being made to honor their memories. Memorial services are being organized, and church leaders have expressed the desire to celebrate the lives of the victims while also providing support to their families and other church members.
The violence at the church has also prompted discussions about gun violence and safety in public spaces, particularly places of worship. Many community leaders and citizens have voiced concerns about the availability of firearms and the frequency of mass shootings across the United States, urging lawmakers to take stronger actions to prevent gun violence.
Conclusion: A Community Reels from Tragedy
As Lexington and the larger Kentucky community continue to process the tragic events of July 13, 2025, authorities remain committed to bringing clarity and justice to the families affected by the shootings. Investigators are working tirelessly to gather evidence, understand the suspect’s motivations, and ensure that those responsible for this senseless violence are held accountable.
The families of Beverly Gumm and Kristina Combs will undoubtedly cherish the memories of their loved ones, while the entire community joins them in mourning. The Lexington Police Department and Kentucky State Police will continue their investigation, and officials have assured the public that more updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
For now, Lexington stands united in the face of this tragedy, offering support to the grieving families and honoring the lives lost in this senseless act of violence.