Tragedy at Richmond Road Baptist Church: Remembering Beverly ‘Gumm’ Gum and Christina Combs
Lexington, Kentucky Grieves Following Deadly Church Shooting
LEXINGTON, KY – A community has been left shaken and heartbroken following a deadly shooting at Richmond Road Baptist Church in Lexington, Kentucky, which claimed the lives of three individuals, including two beloved local women and the gunman, and left two other men injured. The violence unfolded on what was meant to be a peaceful day of worship, turning a sacred place of refuge into a scene of terror and sorrow.
The deceased have been identified as Beverly “Gumm” Gum, age 72, and Christina Combs, age 32. Both women were active members of the church and well known in the Lexington community. The suspected gunman, whose name has not been released pending further investigation, is also deceased. Authorities confirmed he had an apparent affiliation with the church, though details about his connection remain under investigation.
In addition to the fatalities, two men sustained serious injuries during the attack. A Kentucky State Trooper was also injured earlier in the day in a related incident at Blue Grass Airport, where the gunman reportedly fired shots prior to the church attack. The trooper, who bravely pursued the assailant across town, ultimately traced him to the church. His swift action likely prevented further loss of life.
A Horrific Day Unfolds
Authorities say the gunman’s rampage began earlier in the day near Blue Grass Airport, where he fired on the trooper during a traffic-related incident. The officer was wounded but continued to track the suspect, eventually tracing his movements to Richmond Road Baptist Church. According to preliminary reports, the shooter entered the church during a service or gathering and opened fire, killing Beverly Gum and Christina Combs, and injuring two other male parishioners before taking his own life.
Emergency services responded quickly, and the church grounds were soon swarmed with first responders. Paramedics rushed the injured to local hospitals while law enforcement secured the scene. As details emerged, the magnitude of the tragedy became clear—and with it, the deep grief that settled over the Lexington community.
Remembering the Victims
Beverly “Gumm” Gum, 72, was known as a gentle soul and a devout Christian who spent decades serving her community through faith and compassion. She was often the first to arrive at the church and the last to leave. Loved ones describe her as a grandmotherly figure to many in the congregation, someone who always had a kind word, a warm smile, and a helping hand.
Christina Combs, 32, was a vibrant and spirited young woman with a heart for outreach. She had recently taken on more leadership roles within the church, including mentoring youth and organizing community events. Christina’s friends and fellow church members remember her as passionate, generous, and full of life. She was engaged to be married next year and had just started a new job in social services—dreams tragically cut short.
Both women were pillars of strength, and their sudden loss has devastated not only their families but the entire Richmond Road Baptist Church family and wider Lexington area.
Community in Mourning
The tragedy has cast a somber shadow over Lexington, prompting an outpouring of grief and support from across the state. Vigils are being planned to honor the lives lost, and community leaders have called for unity, healing, and prayer during this time of shock and sorrow.
Pastor James Holloway of Richmond Road Baptist Church released a brief statement:
“This is the darkest day in the history of our congregation. We are heartbroken. But even in our grief, we turn to our faith for strength. Beverly and Christina were lights in our church, and we will carry their memory forward as we seek comfort in God’s presence.”
Investigation Ongoing
Law enforcement agencies, including Lexington Police and the Kentucky State Police, are conducting a thorough investigation into the motive and events leading up to the tragedy. While the shooter’s affiliation with the church is known, it remains unclear what prompted such a horrific act of violence. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Governor and local officials have extended condolences and pledged resources to support the victims’ families and the wounded. Mental health counselors and crisis support teams have also been made available to parishioners and community members affected by the incident.
A Call for Prayer and Unity
This tragedy has shaken the heart of Kentucky—a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of community. As the city of Lexington mourns the loss of Beverly Gum and Christina Combs, we ask that prayers be lifted for their families, the injured victims, the brave trooper, and all those affected.
Let us remember the lives of these women not for how they were lost, but for how they lived—with kindness, faith, and love. May their memory inspire healing and unity in the days ahead.
🕯️ Rest in peace, Beverly and Christina. Your light will never be extinguished. 🕯️