Lexington, KY — Authorities have identified the suspect in Sunday’s devastating shooting at a Lexington church as Guy E. House, a resident of Lexington. According to Fayette County Coroner Gary Ginn, House is now deceased following a violent series of events that began Sunday morning and culminated in a deadly confrontation at Richmond Road Baptist Church.
What began as a routine traffic stop escalated into a tragedy that has left a community reeling, two women dead, and several others wounded.
Timeline of Events
The incident began around 11:30 a.m. Sunday, when a Kentucky State Police trooper initiated a traffic stop on Terminal Drive, not far from Blue Grass Airport. During the stop, the suspect—later identified as House—opened fire on the trooper, striking him. Bystanders on the scene rushed to help the injured officer while the suspect fled the area, triggering a massive law enforcement response.
Shortly after fleeing, House carjacked a vehicle, further endangering civilians as he attempted to evade capture. Authorities say House then made his way to Richmond Road Baptist Church, where he opened fire once again—this time on church property.
Tragedy at the Church
At the church, two women—one 72 years old, the other 32—were killed in the gunfire. Two men were also injured, though their conditions have not been publicly released at this time. The identities of the victims have not yet been released pending notification of their families.
Law enforcement officials stated that House had a known connection to the church, though details surrounding his relationship to the congregation, the victims, or the motive for the attack remain under investigation.
As officers arrived at the church in response to the shooting, House was confronted by law enforcement and ultimately shot and killed at the scene. Multiple officers discharged their weapons during the encounter and, as per protocol, have since been placed on administrative assignment while the incident is reviewed.
Investigation and Community Impact
The Kentucky State Police, in coordination with Lexington Police, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, and federal agencies, are conducting a comprehensive investigation into the sequence of events and motive behind the attack. Officials have confirmed that House’s identity was withheld temporarily until family notifications could be completed, but he has now been publicly named.
At this time, authorities have not disclosed a clear motive for the attack or explained what may have triggered the sudden outburst of violence. Investigators are looking into House’s background, mental health history, and possible ties to the victims or the church.
Lexington Police Chief and local clergy held a brief press conference Sunday evening, expressing grief and support for the victims while thanking the public for their patience and cooperation during a chaotic and heartbreaking day.
“This is a day of mourning for our city,” said one official. “We’re grieving alongside the families who lost loved ones and praying for the recovery of those injured. Churches should be sanctuaries—places of peace—and today, that peace was shattered.”
Next Steps and Support for Victims
Crisis counselors and grief support services are being offered to the congregation and community members, many of whom are struggling to come to terms with the trauma. A vigil is expected to be held later this week to honor the lives lost.
The injured trooper remains hospitalized, and officials say he is in stable condition thanks to the quick actions of nearby Good Samaritans and responding EMS personnel.
Law enforcement has asked that anyone with video footage, photographs, or first-hand information about the shooting or the suspect’s movements Sunday morning contact Kentucky State Police or Lexington Police Department immediately.
This senseless act of violence has left a deep scar on the Lexington community, and while the immediate threat has passed, the process of healing—both emotional and spiritual—has only just begun.
Further updates will be provided as more information is made available.
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