Man Opens Fire in Kentucky Church, Killing 2 Parishioners

Baptist church in Lexington. Photo: Fox News

LEXINGTON — On July 13, 2025, in the state of Kentucky, an armed assailant shot and killed two female parishioners during a Sunday service at a Baptist church. Three other people were injured, including a state police officer, according to reports.

The incident began with an armed attack on a police officer near Blue Grass Airport, after which the suspect fled and hijacked a car. He later arrived at the Richmond Road Baptist Church, where a service was underway, and opened fire inside the building. The victims were identified as 32-year-old Christina Combs and 72-year-old Beverly Gumm. Two other people at the church were wounded, one of whom is in critical condition.

The gunman was killed by responding police officers, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities and church representatives said they are working with the victims’ families and providing necessary support.

The suspect has been identified as 47-year-old Guy House. Investigators believe he had a connection to individuals at the church.

In a post on X, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said that violence such as what took place in Lexington "has no place in our commonwealth or country," and asked for the faithful to join his family in prayer for the families of those lost.

Earlier, UOJ reported on a case in the U.S. where a man rammed a church with a truck and opened fire.

Read also

Trump Pledges Weapons for Ukraine, Threatens Russia with Tariffs

U.S. President demands peace deal within 50 days or vows sweeping trade penalties on Russia and its allies.

32nd Russian Orthodox Church Musicians Conference to Be Held in October

The conference will be hosted by St. Vladimir Memorial Church in Jackson, New Jersey.

SVOTS Announces Major Leadership Restructuring

Presidency of the Seminary will now be held ex officio by the Metropolitan (primate) of the Orthodox Church in America.

Patr. Theophilos, Holy Land Church Leaders Condemn Israeli Settler Violence in West Bank Christian Village

Patriarchs call for investigation after attacks on Taybeh, urge restoration of rule of law.

Civil Governor vs. Athonite Fathers

The following was originally reported by the Union of Orthodox Journalists Athonite Bureau in May and is being shared here for our American readers.

Man Opens Fire in Kentucky Church, Killing 2 Parishioners

The shooter entered a Baptist church during a service and opened fire on the congregation this past Sunday.