LEXINGTON, KY – July 13, 2025 — With broken hearts, the Lexington community mourns the loss of Christina “Kristy” Combs, a 32-year-old woman whose life was taken in a horrific act of violence that unfolded Sunday at Richmond Road Baptist Church. Kristy was one of two victims killed in the church shooting, which was part of a tragic and deadly chain of events that also left several others injured, including a Kentucky State Trooper.
The suspect, now identified as Guy House, 49, of Lexington, carried out two separate but connected attacks — one beginning with a traffic stop on Terminal Drive, near Blue Grass Airport, and ending at the historic Richmond Road Baptist Church, where Kristy and 72-year-old Beverly Gumm were fatally shot. House was later killed by law enforcement at the scene.
A Peaceful Morning Turned into Horror
Authorities say that around 11:30 a.m., a Kentucky State Trooper attempted a routine traffic stop on Terminal Drive. During the encounter, the suspect, Guy House, opened fire, striking the trooper and fleeing the scene. House then reportedly carjacked a nearby vehicle and made his way across town to Richmond Road Baptist Church, where he had personal ties to the congregation.
Once there, he opened fire again, this time targeting individuals on church property. Kristy Combs and Beverly Gumm were both killed in the shooting. Two men were also injured, and remain hospitalized. The motive for the attack has not been officially determined, though police confirmed that House had some connection to the church or its members.
The entire ordeal spanned multiple locations and has left the city shaken, sparking grief, outrage, and an outpouring of support for the victims.
Honoring Kristy Combs
To those who knew her, Kristy Combs was more than just a name in a headline. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a cherished member of her church community. A lifelong Lexington resident, Kristy was known for her kind heart, warm personality, and unshakable faith. She was active in church ministries, often volunteering her time to support local families in need and mentoring young girls in the congregation.
Friends describe Kristy as someone who radiated light — a woman who always offered help before it was asked for, who remembered birthdays with hand-written cards, and who had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued. She worked locally as a medical assistant and had dreams of one day becoming a nurse, hoping to make a difference in the lives of others.
“Kristy was the kind of person you hoped to sit next to at church,” one fellow congregant shared. “She listened without judgment, prayed with sincerity, and made even the hardest days feel a little lighter.”
Community in Mourning
Sunday’s tragedy has left the congregation of Richmond Road Baptist Church devastated. The sanctuary, a place long known for its warmth and welcome, is now the scene of unspeakable violence. The church has announced that it will hold a vigil and memorial service in honor of Kristy and Beverly Gumm in the coming days.
Mayor Linda Gorton addressed the community Sunday night, calling for strength and unity in the face of overwhelming grief.
“Lexington has suffered a terrible loss today. We stand with the families of the victims, and we will not let this act of evil define us. Kristy and Beverly’s memories will be honored through our compassion and through our commitment to one another.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Kentucky State Police, Lexington Police Department, and Fayette County Sheriff’s Office are continuing their investigation into the shootings. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the officers who shot and killed the suspect have been placed on administrative leave in accordance with standard protocol.
Authorities are still working to uncover what led Guy House to carry out such a violent and calculated act. His relationship with the church and the victims remains a key point of investigation.
Holding On to Light in the Darkness
As the city tries to come to terms with the shock and sorrow of this tragedy, one thing remains clear: Christina “Kristy” Combs will not be forgotten. Her life, though tragically short, was one of service, joy, and unwavering faith. In the words of her pastor, “Kristy was love in motion — gentle in heart, bold in kindness, and faithful until the very end.”
Her family has asked for privacy during this time of mourning, but expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received. They plan to establish a memorial fund in Kristy’s name to support violence prevention efforts and church community programs.
In honoring her, we commit to standing against violence, to remembering the beauty of those we’ve lost, and to lifting one another up — just as Kristy did every single day.
Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days. Anyone wishing to support the Combs family is encouraged to contact Richmond Road Baptist Church or follow official memorial announcements on the church’s website.
Leave a Reply