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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.

 

Lexington, KY – A day that began with worship and fellowship turned into one of unimaginable horror and heartbreak. The Richmond Road Baptist Church became the scene of a deadly shooting that claimed three lives, including two cherished members of the Lexington community: Beverly “Gumm” Gum and Christina Combs.

The July 13th tragedy has sent shockwaves through families, congregants, and neighbors who are struggling to make sense of a senseless act of violence in a place that symbolized peace, prayer, and sanctuary.

A Sanctuary Shattered

What began as a law enforcement pursuit quickly escalated into a harrowing confrontation. According to police, the suspect was stopped earlier that morning after a license plate reader alert flagged his vehicle. During that traffic stop, the suspect shot a state trooper and then carjacked another vehicle before fleeing.

His path led to Richmond Road Baptist Church, where he opened fire upon arrival, striking several individuals. Beverly “Gumm” Gum and Christina Combs were both pronounced dead at the scene—taken far too soon in a place where they had likely found comfort and community countless times before.

Two male victims were also injured in the attack:

•One remains in critical condition

•The other is in stable condition, recovering at a nearby hospital

Authorities believe there may have been a personal connection between the gunman and individuals at the church. The suspect was ultimately shot and killed by police during the confrontation. Three Lexington Police Department officers discharged their weapons; body cameras were active and will be reviewed as part of the investigation.

Remembering Beverly “Gumm” Gum and Christina Combs

Both Beverly and Christina were more than names in a headline—they were beloved mothers, daughters, friends, and pillars of their faith community.

Beverly “Gumm” Gum was known for her steadfast spirit and deep kindness. A nurturing soul with a heart for helping others, she was a familiar and comforting presence to many in the congregation. Whether lending a listening ear or volunteering her time, she lived her life in service to those around her.

Christina Combs was equally loved—a woman of faith, strength, and quiet generosity. She had a passion for uplifting others and was deeply committed to her family and church. Her smile could brighten a room, and her gentle wisdom touched many lives.

The news of their deaths has devastated their families, friends, and church family. These were women who made others feel safe, now tragically lost to an act of violence in a place they called home.

An Outpouring of Grief and Support

Lexington has responded with an overwhelming wave of compassion and sorrow. Vigils are being planned. Prayers are being lifted. Counseling services have been offered to the shaken congregation and first responders. Clergy from across the city have come together to offer spiritual support and solidarity.

Local officials, community leaders, and everyday citizens are calling for unity and healing in the wake of this trauma. Many have pointed to the strength and faith of the victims as a beacon of hope even in this dark time.

Continuing Investigation & Call for Support

Authorities continue to investigate the motive and events leading up to the shooting. While the identity of the gunman has not yet been publicly released, officials have confirmed that the suspect had a prior connection to someone within the church.

Community members with any information about the incident or who may have witnessed suspicious behavior in the area are urged to come forward and speak with authorities. Honoring Their Memory

As we mourn the tragic loss of Beverly and Christina, we are reminded of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of community. These women will not be defined by the way they died, but by the love they gave, the faith they lived, and the lives they touched.

Plans for memorial services will be announced in the coming days. In the meantime, the families ask for privacy, prayers, and continued support.

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Let us remember Beverly “Gumm” Gum and Christina Combs not for the violence that took them, but for the light they brought into the world. Their absence is deeply felt, but their legacy of kindness, compassion, and faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew them.

Rest in peace, Beverly and Christina. May your memories be a blessing, and your spirits live on through those who carry your love forward.

 

It is with profound sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Christopher J.A. Noskey, affectionately and artistically known by many as Frill Letendre. Christopher’s unexpected departure has left a space in our hearts that no words can truly mend—an unfillable void for those fortunate enough to have known his warmth, his brilliance, and his extraordinary spirit.

A Soul Full of Light and Love

Christopher was more than just a beloved family member, friend, or colleague—he was a force of nature whose presence could light up the darkest of rooms. As Frill Letendre, he captivated audiences with his creativity, his bold self-expression, and his unwavering courage to be exactly who he was. Through performance, fashion, art, or simply conversation, he inspired others to live more authentically and love more deeply.

To know Christopher was to know kindness, laughter, and generosity. He had the rare ability to make anyone feel seen and valued, whether they had just met him or known him for years. His laughter was infectious, his stories unforgettable, and his heart incredibly large.

A Devastating Loss, A Lasting Legacy

Christopher’s passing has shaken the core of our community, his chosen family, and all who were touched by his vibrant presence. For those who knew him personally, the loss feels surreal—like a star has vanished from the night sky. He leaves behind cherished memories, unspoken dreams, and a legacy defined by love, authenticity, and unapologetic beauty.

While we grieve this tremendous loss, we also celebrate the life he lived—a life full of color, compassion, and courage. He lived as an example of how to embrace one’s truth and lift others in the process.

🕊️ Honoring Christopher

Plans for a celebration of Christopher’s life will be shared in the coming days, and we invite everyone who loved him to come together in remembrance. It will be a space of tears and laughter, of music and memories, reflecting the spirit of the one we’ve lost but will never forget.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Christopher’s memory to consider donating to LGBTQ+ organizations, mental health support initiatives, or local arts programs—causes that were close to his heart and reflected his values.

💬 A Final Word

It is often said that grief is the price we pay for love. And while we are heartbroken beyond measure, we are also grateful—grateful to have known someone as beautiful, as brilliant, and as bold as Christopher J.A. Noskey.

We miss you, Christopher. We miss your light, your voice, your spirit. The world was more radiant with you in it, and though you are no longer here in body, your energy lives on—in the art, the memories, and the love you gave so freely.

Rest gently, Frill. Shine on forever.

 

Rutherford County, TN – The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office is urgently requesting the public’s assistance in gathering dash cam footage related to the tragic murder of 22-year-old Noah Taylor, a Smyrna resident who was shot and killed while driving along Interstate 24 Saturday morning.

According to Detective Thomas Burnett, Taylor was traveling on I-24 near Waldron Road toward Nashville around 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 12, 2025, when he was fatally shot behind the wheel. The vehicle he was driving veered off the highway and came to a stop after the incident, sparking a homicide investigation that has shaken the local community.

📹 Call for Dash Cam Footage

Authorities are specifically seeking dash cam video from drivers who were traveling between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on I-24, particularly in the stretch from Interstate 840 to the Bell Road exit. Investigators believe footage from this timeframe and area could provide crucial clues, including identifying the suspect vehicle or any suspicious activity leading up to the fatal shooting.

“Dash cam footage would be advantageous,” said Detective Burnett. “We’re interested in any video that may have captured Noah’s vehicle, other vehicles in close proximity, or unusual activity along the highway.”

If you were driving in that corridor during the specified timeframe and have dash cam footage—even if you believe it may be insignificant—please review it and contact the authorities.

📞 How You Can Help

• If you have relevant dash cam video or information, contact Detective Thomas Burnett directly at 615-904-3052.
• To remain anonymous, call Rutherford County Crime Stoppers at 615-893-7867.

All tips provided to Crime Stoppers are confidential. Your information could help solve a crime and bring peace to a grieving family.

💰 Rewards Offered

• Noah Taylor’s family is offering a $2,000 reward for information leading to the identification and arrest of the person responsible.
• Rutherford County Crime Stoppers is offering an additional reward of up to $1,000 for tips that lead to an arrest and prosecution.

In total, up to $3,000 in rewards are available for information that helps bring justice in this heartbreaking case.

🕊️ Remembering Noah Taylor

Noah Taylor was just 22 years old—a young man with dreams, a family who loved him deeply, and a full life ahead. His senseless and violent death has left his family devastated and the community in mourning. A photo shared by his loved ones shows Noah with a warm smile and kind eyes, a reminder of the bright soul that was lost too soon.

Now, as his family and detectives work to uncover the truth, the public’s help is more important than ever.

🔍 Do You Have Dash Cam Footage from July 12?

Were you driving on I-24 near Waldron Road, I-840, or Bell Road between 7:00 and 8:00 a.m. on Saturday?

Please check your footage. Even a brief clip could hold vital evidence.

Let’s stand together to bring justice for Noah Taylor. Share this message, review your dash cams, and contact authorities if you have any leads. Your help could make all the difference.

 

It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the passing of Christopher M. Craig, who departed this life on July 13, 2025, at the age of 88. A man of quiet strength and unwavering resilience, Christopher was a beloved member of his Georgia community and the cornerstone of his family.

Born and raised with deep Southern values, Christopher embodied loyalty, perseverance, and compassion. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife for 66 wonderful years, a marriage rooted in love, respect, and unwavering commitment. Together, they built a life filled with shared memories, enduring partnership, and the kind of love that sets an example for generations.

Christopher was also a cherished father, and among his proudest legacies is his daughter, Tracey Mayhan, who continues to carry forward his values and spirit. In the wake of his passing, Tracey has taken on the responsibility of organizing a fundraiser to honor his memory and support the family during this time of grief. It is a reflection of the deep bond they shared and the strength Christopher passed on to his family.

Those who knew Christopher describe him as a man of quiet dignity. He wasn’t one for grandstanding, but his actions spoke volumes. Whether helping a neighbor, sharing stories with family, or sitting quietly beside his wife in their garden, his presence offered comfort, stability, and warmth. He will be remembered for the kindness in his eyes, the wisdom in his words, and the love he so freely gave.

His passing is not only a profound loss to his family but also to the many lives he touched throughout his lifetime. The community mourns the absence of a man who lived with integrity and left the world a better place through his example.

As the family grieves, they are also reflecting on the legacy Christopher leaves behind—a legacy of love, perseverance, and unity. The fundraiser in his memory is more than just an act of support; it is a gesture of gratitude for a man who gave his all and asked for little in return.

Please consider supporting the Craig family during this difficult time, whether through a donation, a message of condolence, or simply keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.

Rest in peace, Christopher M. Craig. Your journey here may have ended, but your love and strength live on in those who were lucky enough to know you.

 

In the wake of devastating floods that swept through the Texas Hill Country, an update has emerged that is both profoundly heartbreaking and deeply inspiring. 8-year-old Renee Smajstrla, a joyful camper at Camp Mystic, has tragically been confirmed among those lost in the floodwaters.

Just a day before the disaster, Renee’s bright smile—captured in a photo now widely shared—radiated the pure joy of childhood, summer, and adventure. Her image has since touched hearts across the state and beyond. Now, the sorrow surrounding her loss is felt all the more deeply by those who knew her personally—and by a company many Texans hold dear.

A Personal Loss for the James Avery Family

It has been confirmed that Renee Smajstrla was part of the James Avery Jewelry family, a company beloved for its handcrafted charms and jewelry that celebrate faith, love, and heritage. Headquartered in Kerrville, Texas, the same region now reeling from flood devastation, the company has long been a fixture in the Hill Country community.

James Avery’s Chairman and CEO released a heartfelt statement acknowledging Renee’s passing, calling it a “deeply personal loss for all of us.” As both a family member and symbol of the community they cherish, Renee’s death has brought the tragedy painfully close to home.

Turning Grief Into Generosity

In Renee’s honor, James Avery Jewelry has announced a $1 million donation to aid in flood relief efforts throughout the affected areas of the Texas Hill Country. Additionally, the company has committed all proceeds from the sale of their iconic “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm to directly support families impacted by the floods.

“Renee was a child full of light and kindness. Her legacy will now live on in a way that brings comfort and support to others,” said the company in a public statement. “This is how she would want to be remembered—by helping.”

A Legacy That Shines

Renee was known by those around her for her compassion, her laughter, and her love of nature. She was the kind of child who lifted others simply by being herself—joyful, kind, and full of curiosity. Her death is an unspeakable loss to her family, friends, fellow campers, and the entire Hill Country community.

And yet, in the shadow of this sorrow, something beautiful has begun to grow: a legacy of love and aid that will continue to touch lives long after the floodwaters recede. Through the contributions made in her name, Renee’s spirit—so vibrant and giving—will live on, not just in memories, but in the healing that follows tragedy.

A Call to Remember and Support

We ask that you hold Renee Smajstrla’s family and all those grieving in the Texas Hill Country close in your thoughts and prayers. And if you’re looking for a way to honor Renee’s life and support flood relief, consider purchasing the “Deep in the Heart of Texas” charm or donating directly to the organizations working to rebuild these beloved communities.

Renee may have only had eight years on this earth, but the impact of her light—and the love now given in her name—is boundless.

Rest in peace, sweet Renee. May your memory continue to shine, deep in the heart of Texas.

 

In an inspiring act of bravery that likely saved countless lives, Deacon Richard Pryor, the man who used his personal pickup truck to stop an active shooter outside his church last month, has now been honored with a brand-new Ford F-150.

A Split-Second Decision That Saved Lives

The terrifying event unfolded one Sunday morning when Deacon Pryor arrived late for church. As he pulled into the parking lot, he was met with chaos—a gunman was actively firing at the church entrance.

Without a second thought, Deacon Pryor acted decisively. He drove his pickup truck directly at the shooter, striking him and interrupting the attack, even as bullets pierced his own vehicle. His courageous move disrupted what authorities now say could have been a devastating mass shooting.

Meanwhile, a member of the church’s armed security team returned fire, striking the gunman and ending the threat. Together, their fast and fearless actions protected the lives of everyone inside.

Honoring a Local Hero

In the days that followed, Deacon Pryor’s truck, riddled with bullet holes, stood as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and courage. But now, thanks to the generosity of a local dealership and community supporters, Pryor has been gifted a brand-new Ford F-150 to replace the one he used to stop the shooter.

Grateful yet humble, Deacon Pryor remarked:

“I was just trying to protect my church family. I didn’t think about anything else.”

A Legacy of Courage

Though he insists he’s not a hero, the community—and the nation—sees him differently. His bold action, alongside the decisive response of the church security member, undoubtedly averted a tragedy and reminds us that heroes are often ordinary people put in extraordinary situations.

As the church continues to reflect and heal, Deacon Pryor’s story stands as a shining example of what it means to act with love, faith, and courage in the face of danger.

Let us celebrate his bravery and continue to lift up those who risk everything to protect others.

 

On Friday, July 11, 2025, at approximately 8:48 PM, officers with the Miner Police Department responded to a single-vehicle crash on North Interstate Drive, just north of U.S. Highway 62.Upon arrival, officers located the wrecked vehicle and identified the driver as Kinth R. Wilson, 52, of Sikeston/Louisiana. 

Mr. Wilson, the sole occupant and victim in the crash, showed clear signs of possible impairment, prompting officers to begin a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) investigation.

It was determined that Mr. Wilson’s vehicle had left the roadway and struck a large metal signpost. He provided a breath sample using a portable breath tester, which registered a breath alcohol content of 0.300—3.75 times the legal limit of 0.08. Additional evidence supported the finding of intoxication, and officers placed Mr. Wilson under arrest for DWI.

After being transported to the Miner Police Department for booking, Mr. Wilson attempted to escape custody by physically resisting and attempting to flee the facility. Officers quickly intervened and secured him without further incident. As a result, he was additionally charged with Attempted Escape from Custody and Property Damage in the Second Degree.

The charges were reviewed and filed by the Scott County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and a warrant was issued through the Scott County Circuit Court. Mr. Wilson was formally charged with:

• Driving While Intoxicated
• Attempted Escape from Custody
• Property Damage – Second Degree

A $7,500 cash-only bond was set, and Mr. Wilson was transferred to the Scott County Jail.

During the incident and throughout the booking process, Mr. Wilson maintained that he had done nothing wrong and alleged he was being targeted due to his ethnicity. As always, it is important to note that all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Miner Police Department continues to stress the dangers of impaired driving, reminding the public that alcohol-related crashes are a leading cause of death on American roads. They urge all drivers: Don’t drink and drive — plan ahead, stay safe, and protect lives.

 

Belleville, IL – July 13, 2025 – The Belleville Police Department is actively investigating a tragic shooting that resulted in the death of a 50-year-old man early Sunday morning.

At approximately 12:55 a.m. on July 13, 2025, officers were dispatched to the 500 block of North 40th Street following reports of a disturbance involving a person who had been shot. Upon arrival, officers discovered a male victim lying in the front yard of a residence, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.

Officers immediately began administering lifesaving aid and continued efforts until emergency medical services (EMS) arrived on scene. Despite those efforts, the victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The victim’s identity is being withheld at this time pending official notification of next of kin.

Following the incident, Belleville Police Detectives along with members of the Crime Scene Unit arrived to secure and process the scene. One individual was located at the scene and taken into custody for questioning. That person is currently being held at the Belleville Police Department, and investigators are working to determine their involvement in the incident.

Authorities are urging members of the public who may have witnessed the disturbance or have any information related to the case to come forward. Community assistance may play a vital role in helping bring clarity and justice to this tragic event.

“This is a deeply unfortunate situation, and we extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of the victim,” a spokesperson for the Belleville Police Department said in a brief statement. “Our detectives are working diligently to gather all available evidence, conduct interviews, and ensure a thorough investigation.”

At this time, no further details—including the name of the victim or the individual taken into custody—have been released, as the investigation remains active and ongoing. Authorities plan to provide additional updates as soon as they are available.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Belleville Police Department at (618) 234-1212 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (866) 371-TIPS (8477).

The Belleville Police Department appreciates the community’s patience and cooperation during this difficult time.

 

It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Mrs. Venter, a treasured member of the Athlone Girls’ High School community. Her passing leaves behind a void that words can scarcely fill — a loss felt not just by her loved ones, but by generations of students, colleagues, and families whose lives she touched with grace, compassion, and quiet strength.

Mrs. Venter was more than just a teacher. She was a mentor, a listener, a leader, and for many, a second mother. Her classroom was a place of learning, yes — but also of encouragement, laughter, and growth. With a firm yet nurturing hand, she helped young women find their voices, build their confidence, and believe in their potential. Her legacy lives not only in lesson plans or school traditions, but in the thousands of hearts she helped shape over the years.

Whether she was greeting students at the start of the day, staying late to help with exams, or guiding new teachers with patience and wisdom, Mrs. Venter embodied the spirit of service and integrity. Her dedication to education was matched only by her deep care for the emotional and personal well-being of those around her.

Her loss is being deeply mourned throughout the school and greater community. The hallways of Athlone Girls’ High School feel quieter without her presence, and yet her influence remains woven into every corner of the school she served so faithfully. Her kindness, her high standards, and her belief in the power of education will remain an enduring part of the school’s story.

As we come to terms with this painful loss, we ask you to keep her family, friends, and the entire school community in your thoughts and prayers. May we all find comfort in knowing that Mrs. Venter’s beautiful soul is now at peace, and that her memory will continue to live on in the lessons she taught and the love she gave so freely.

Rest in peace, dear Mrs. Venter. Your light will never be forgotten.

To teach is to touch a life forever.