It was supposed to be a community celebration, but shortly before 7 p.m. Saturday evening, Lexington Police say gunfire broke out at Charles Young Park, leaving one person dead and four injured, including two children.
One person was pronounced dead at the scene. Four others were taken to the hospital with injuries that are not considered life-threatening. Among those hurt are a four-year-old child, a 14-year-old, and two adults.
Devine Carama with ONE Lexington posted on social media that he was inches away from the shooter. He said in part:
“My heart is broken. Opening fire into a crowd at a peaceful event, in broad daylight, with women and children present is unacceptable. But even in this tragic moment, we saw just how amazing and loving the people of East End really are. We came together to help one another, protect our children, and support those who were hurt. This is not normal, and our community deserves better.”
Police say the shooter has not been identified, and no arrests have been made.
The shooting also prompted the city to activate its Emergency Mobilization Plan and declare a police staffing emergency as officers responded to the scene. Investigators are reviewing evidence from the scene, along with video from a livestream that captured the moment the gunfire began. Police say there is no ongoing threat to the public.
And police are asking anyone who was at the event and may have photos, video, or information about what happened to come forward.
You can contact Lexington Police at 859-258-3600. For those who want to remain anonymous, Bluegrass Crime Stoppers can be reached at 859-253-2020.
