A tragic shooting at Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky, resulted in the deaths of two women on March 17, 2024. The incident, which began with a traffic stop involving a Kentucky state trooper, escalated into a violent confrontation that left a community in shock.
The chaos unfolded when the trooper, responding to a “license plate reader alert,” stopped a vehicle around 11:30 AM. During the stop, he was shot, prompting a swift response from law enforcement. Following the incident, the suspect carjacked another vehicle and fled to the nearby church, where he opened fire. According to Lexington Police Chief Lawrence Weathers, the two victims were a 72-year-old woman and a 32-year-old woman, both of whom were part of the church’s congregation.
In addition to the fatalities, two others sustained injuries during the shooting. One victim was reported to be in critical condition, while the other was stable and receiving treatment at a local hospital. The suspect was shot by police and died at the scene, although further details regarding his identity have not yet been released.
Community Response and Official Statements
The local community has expressed its devastation over the violence that struck a place of worship. Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn noted that the church is home to a small, tight-knit congregation, emphasizing the impact of the tragedy on its members.
In a social media post, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear urged residents to pray for all those affected by the “senseless acts of violence” and praised the quick response from law enforcement agencies. “Let’s give thanks for the swift response by the Lexington Police Department and Kentucky State Police,” he stated.
State Attorney General Russell Coleman also condemned the attack, describing it as an invasion of the “Lord’s House.” He promised support from his office for local and state agencies involved in the investigation. “The attack on law enforcement and people of faith in Lexington shocked the entire Commonwealth,” he added.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The investigation is ongoing, with local authorities working alongside state police to piece together the events that led to the shooting. Chief Weathers mentioned that preliminary information suggests the suspect may have had a connection to individuals at the church, although details remain unclear.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, officials are likely to review safety measures at places of worship and public gatherings. The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding gun violence and safety in everyday settings, prompting discussions about preventive measures.
The Lexington Police Department remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens as they navigate this difficult time.
