LEXINGTON, KY — As Lexington begins to reckon with the aftermath of an unspeakable tragedy, Pastor Jerry Gumm, beloved spiritual leader of Richmond Road Baptist Church, has been identified as one of the victims injured in Sunday’s horrific shooting. Gumm, who is currently undergoing emergency surgery, was critically wounded in the attack that also claimed the life of his wife, 72-year-old Beverly “Gumm” Gum.
The July 13th shootings, which spanned two locations—Terminal Drive near Blue Grass Airport and the Richmond Road Baptist Church—have left three people dead, including the suspect, identified as 55-year-old Guy House, and multiple others injured, including a Kentucky State Trooper.
Remembering the Victims
Authorities have officially confirmed the fatalities at the church:
- Beverly Gumm, 72, wife of Pastor Jerry Gumm, was pronounced dead at the scene. Known for her unwavering faith, kindness, and grace, Beverly was a cornerstone of the church family and a beacon of love to all who knew her.
- Christina Combs, 32, a devoted member of the congregation and cherished friend, also died at the scene. She was known for her warm heart and commitment to service.
The third fatality was the gunman, Guy House, who was killed at the scene after exchanging fire with law enforcement.
A Pastor Fighting for His Life
Pastor Jerry Gumm, who has led the Richmond Road Baptist Church community for years, was among those shot during the incident. He was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and is currently in surgery. His family, congregation, and the entire Lexington faith community are praying fervently for his recovery.
“Jerry has always been a rock for this community,” one church member shared. “Now we are doing what he taught us to do: lean into prayer and hold each other close.”
The Timeline of the Attack
According to police reports:
- The tragedy began when House was stopped by a state trooper after a license plate reader flagged his vehicle. He then shot the trooper, carjacked another vehicle, and fled the scene.
- He was later tracked to Richmond Road Baptist Church, where he opened fire on unsuspecting victims.
- Multiple individuals were shot. In addition to Beverly Gumm and Christina Combs, Pastor Gumm and another male victim were transported to the hospital.
- Three Lexington Police officers responded, engaging the shooter. All three discharged their weapons, and body camera footage was activated.
A City in Mourning, A Community in Prayer
Lexington has been left reeling. The Richmond Road Baptist Church, long seen as a haven of faith and fellowship, is now at the heart of this devastating loss. Community leaders, elected officials, and clergy from across the state have expressed condolences and are organizing vigils and support efforts for the grieving families.
Support has also poured in online, with hashtags like #PrayForPastorGumm, #LexingtonStrong, and #RichmondRoadBaptist trending as people across the country express sorrow and solidarity.
Continuing the Investigation
Police continue to piece together what led Guy House to commit these violent acts. Investigators say there may have been a prior personal connection between the suspect and members of the church. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.
As the investigation continues, Kentucky State Police, Lexington Police Department, and federal authorities are reviewing all evidence, including bodycam footage, and working to support those affected by the trauma.
A Call for Compassion
This is a moment of immeasurable pain—but also of unity. The Richmond Road Baptist Church and the Lexington community are leaning on faith, love, and each other as they process this loss and hold onto hope.
To those who knew Pastor Jerry and Beverly Gumm, their lives were testimonies to service, compassion, and deep, unwavering faith. The community is not only praying for Jerry’s recovery but for healing across every heart touched by this unimaginable act of violence.
Please continue to keep the Gumm family, the Combs family, the injured trooper, and the entire Lexington faith community in your thoughts and prayers.
Rest in peace, Beverly Gumm and Christina Combs. May your memory be eternal, and your light never dim. And to Pastor Gumm—keep fighting. We believe in miracles.
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