LEXINGTON, Ky. — A tragic shooting at Richmond Road Baptist Church left two family members dead, sparking grief and anger within the close-knit community on Sunday. The victims have been identified as Beverly Gumm, 72, and her daughter, Christina Combs, 32. Beverly was the wife of the pastor, Jerry Gumm, and Christina was one of their four children.
Authorities reported that the suspected gunman, 47-year-old Guy House, was shot and killed by police after fleeing the scene. He was confirmed deceased by the Fayette County Coroner’s office. The incident began around 11:40 a.m. when a Kentucky State Police trooper stopped House due to an alert regarding his license plate. Following the traffic stop, House allegedly shot the trooper before fleeing on foot, carjacking another vehicle en route to the church.
At the church, four people were in the basement preparing lunch when the shooting occurred. Beverly and Christina Gumm were pronounced dead at the scene. Two additional victims from the church, Pastor Jerry Gumm and Christina’s husband, Randy Combs, sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital. While Randy’s injuries were non-life-threatening, Jerry’s condition was reported to be critical.
Witnesses provided harrowing accounts of the shooting. Star Rutherford, a daughter and sister to the victims, recounted the chaos that ensued when House entered the church demanding to speak to her sister, Angel. According to Rutherford, her mother confronted House, only to be met with violence. “My mother said, ‘Angel is not here.’ He just replied, ‘Well, I guess someone is gonna have to die then,’ and shot her,” she recounted, struggling to hold back tears.
Friends and family described Beverly Gumm as a compassionate figure who devoted her life to serving the less fortunate. Rutherford shared how her mother spent countless hours delivering food to the homeless and providing support to those battling addiction. “She loved her babies and loved the Lord,” she said.
Further investigation revealed that House had a troubling history, including multiple run-ins with the law across various counties in Kentucky. In 2022, he was involved in a lengthy standoff with police after being pulled over for outstanding warrants. Most recently, he was scheduled to appear in court regarding a domestic violence charge. An emergency protection order had reportedly been filed against him in July, though it remains unclear if this was connected to anyone affiliated with the church.
As the community mourns the loss of Beverly and Christina Gumm, support is pouring in for the surviving family members. Local residents expressed their shock and sorrow, emphasizing the impact of this violence on what is usually a safe haven for their congregation. Funeral services for the victims are expected to draw many from the community, all seeking to honor their memory and offer support during this difficult time.