Beloved Lexington Pastor Jerry Gumm in Critical Condition After Richmond Road Baptist Church Shooting That Claimed Wife and Stepdaughter
LEXINGTON, KY — The city of Lexington continues to grapple with the devastating aftermath of the Richmond Road Baptist Church shooting, as another victim has been identified—Pastor Jerry Gumm. The longtime pastor and respected community leader remains in critical condition after undergoing emergency surgery in the wake of the horrific act of violence that shattered the church community.
Pastor Gumm was among those caught in the crossfire during the Sunday morning attack, which took place while congregants gathered for worship. The shooting claimed the lives of his beloved wife, 72-year-old Beverly Gumm, and his stepdaughter, 32-year-old Christina Combs, both of whom were active members of the church. The grief reverberating from this loss has been felt far beyond the church walls, touching lives throughout the city and beyond.
Known for his warm demeanor, unwavering faith, and decades of service, Pastor Gumm has been a spiritual anchor for many in the Lexington area. For over thirty years, he has served at Richmond Road Baptist Church, guiding generations through both the joys and trials of life with compassion and wisdom. His sermons, filled with hope and conviction, drew a diverse and loyal congregation who now mourn alongside his family.
Beverly Gumm, his wife of over 40 years, was remembered as the heart of the church’s hospitality ministry—always the first to welcome a newcomer and the last to leave after a fellowship meal. Her warmth and kindness were matched only by her devotion to her husband and her faith.
Christina Combs, Pastor Gumm’s stepdaughter, was a bright and passionate young woman who volunteered regularly with the church’s youth group and community outreach programs. Her tragic death at just 32 years old has left many of the church’s younger members shaken and heartbroken.
Lexington Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack. Authorities have not yet released a motive, though they confirmed that the suspect was taken into custody shortly after the incident. The suspect’s identity has not been disclosed pending further investigation.
Meanwhile, an outpouring of support from the community continues to flood in. Vigils have been held outside the church each evening since the shooting, where mourners light candles, pray, and share memories of those lost. A GoFundMe campaign has also been established to support Pastor Gumm’s medical expenses and funeral costs for Beverly and Christina, quickly gathering thousands of dollars in donations.
“We’re devastated,” said Deacon Lawrence Mitchell, a longtime friend of Pastor Gumm. “But we’re holding onto our faith, because that’s what Jerry taught us to do. He would want us to pray, to forgive, and to love each other even in the darkest of times.”
As Pastor Gumm continues to fight for his life in the hospital, his congregation and the broader Lexington community are uniting in prayer and remembrance. The path forward will be difficult, but the spirit of unity and love that Pastor Gumm cultivated in his church may very well be the force that carries them through this immense tragedy.
A public memorial service is being planned for Beverly Gumm and Christina Combs, with details to be announced by church leadership in the coming days. Community members are encouraged to attend and honor the lives of these cherished women, and to lift up Pastor Gumm as he faces a long road to recovery.