LEXINGTON, KY ā Another victim of the tragic Richmond Road Baptist Church shooting has been identified as Pastor Jerry Gumm, who remains in critical condition following emergency surgery. Pastor Gumm, a beloved spiritual leader and cornerstone of the Lexington faith community, was wounded in the same attack that claimed the lives of his wife, 72-year-old Beverly Gumm, and stepdaughter, 32-year-old Christina Combs.
The violence unfolded Sunday during what should have been a peaceful morning of worship. According to Lexington police, the suspect ā identified as Guy E. House, 38 ā carried out two separate shootings: the first at Blue Grass Airport on Terminal Drive, where a Kentucky State Trooper was shot, and the second at Richmond Road Baptist Church, where he opened fire on members of the congregation.
Beverly Gumm, the longtime wife of Pastor Gumm, and Christina Combs, who was active in church and community service, were both killed in the attack. Pastor Gumm, wounded in the gunfire, was rushed to the hospital and immediately taken into surgery. As of the latest update, he is still fighting for his life, and the community is holding onto hope for his recovery.
The suspected gunman, Guy House, who had a reported prior connection to the victims through a previous marriage, was killed by police after the church shooting. Authorities are investigating the possibility that the violence was fueled by a long-standing domestic dispute.
The shocking loss and senseless violence have left the city of Lexington in mourning and disbelief. Richmond Road Baptist Church has become a site of grieving, prayer, and remembrance, as loved ones and congregants try to process the horror of what took place.
In the face of unimaginable pain, the Lexington community is coming together ā lighting candles, holding vigils, and praying for Pastor Jerry Gumm as he fights to heal, and for peace to rest upon the souls of Beverly Gumm and Christina Combs.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact local authorities as the investigation continues. This tragedy has left deep wounds, but the strength and unity of this community remain unshaken.
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