Full Breakdown
Shooting at Charles Young Park Leaves One Dead, Four Injured
8/16/2026, 8:27:23 PM
Data & Statistics
- Victims: 5 shot (1 fatal, 4 injured)
- Children injured: ages 4 and 14
- Adult injuries: two adults, non-life-threatening
- Time of response: police arrived around 6:45 p.m.; fire units arrived one minute later
- Location: 200 block of Midland Avenue, Charles Young Park
Official Statements & Responses
- Governor Andy Beshear addressed the incident while speaking at a Kentucky Democratic Party dinner, noting the proximity of the shooting to the event and urging prayers for the victims.
- He reiterated the request: “If you know of somebody who might be inclined to use a weapon, please let us know.”
- She also noted the activation of the city’s Emergency Mobilization Plan and the organization of a trauma-support event through the One Lexington program.
On-the-Ground Accounts
Devine Carama, director of ONE Lexington, reported that he was attempting to shield four young people when a shooter fired from eight inches away. He described seeing first-responders, including two retired firefighters, perform CPR on victims before emergency crews arrived. Carama’s statements highlighted the presence of women and children at the peaceful community event, which he characterized as “not normal.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Time of police arrival: Some outlets cite 6:45 p.m., while others note 6:48 p.m. as the time officers reached the scene.
- Location of fatality: One source states the victim was pronounced dead at the hospital; another indicates the death occurred at the scene.
- Suspect information: No suspect has been identified or arrested, and motives remain undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Before I continue, I do need to let y’all know we do have some tough news tonight,” — Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, kentucky governor
- “To stop mass shootings, we have got to elect Democrats that will actually do something about it,” — Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, kentucky governor
- “Gunfire at a peaceful event, in broad daylight, with women and children present is unacceptable,” — Devine Carama, witness
- “While trying to keep four young people covered and safe during the shooting, a person eight inches from me was shot tonight,” — Devine Carama, witness
What’s Next
Lexington Police continue to solicit tips via phone (859-258-3600) and the Bluegrass Crime Stoppers hotline (859-253-2020). The city’s Emergency Mobilization Plan remains in effect, and ONE Lexington is coordinating a mental-health and trauma-support session for affected residents in the coming week. No arrests have been made, and investigators are reviewing video evidence from livestreams captured at the park.
