LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A deadly shooting at a Lexington church has left two women dead and multiple others injured, stirring outrage and grief in the community. The alleged gunman, identified as 47-year-old Guy E. House, was shot and killed by police after a violent escalation beginning with a traffic stop that turned chaotic.
The incident unfolded Sunday morning when Kentucky State Police Sgt. Matt Sudduth approached House’s vehicle near the Lexington airport after a license plate reader indicated active warrants for his arrest. During the encounter, House opened fire, striking a state trooper who was assisting another motorist. Fortunately, the trooper was reported to be in stable condition following the incident.
Fleeing the traffic stop, House carjacked another vehicle and made his way to Richmond Road Baptist Church, approximately 16 miles away. Investigators believe House was looking for the mother of his children, but upon discovering she was not present, he opened fire inside the church.
Beverly Gumm, 72, the pastor’s wife and grandmother of House’s children, was killed along with 34-year-old Christina Combs. Two men present at the church were also wounded; one was reported to be in critical condition, while the other was stable. Their identities have not yet been released by authorities.
The confrontation with police came shortly after the church shooting, when officers located House in a rear parking lot. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, at least three officers shot and killed him, according to law enforcement officials.
Officials have not disclosed a specific motive for House’s actions, and the investigation is ongoing. Prior to the shootings, House was due in court for a domestic violence hearing scheduled for the following day, although it did not involve the mother of his children, who was his apparent target at the church.
In the wake of the tragedy, Gov. Andy Beshear called for prayers for all those affected, expressing gratitude for the swift response of law enforcement. “Today’s violence invaded the Lord’s House,” said State Attorney General Russell Coleman, emphasizing the severity of the incident’s impact on the community.
As Lexington grapples with the aftermath of this senseless act, officials are urging citizens to come together to support the victims’ families and the different communities drawn into this violence. The shock and sorrow echo throughout the region as residents seek answers and healing in the face of this horrific event.