LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) is conducting an investigation into a shooting incident that injured two people in the Russell neighborhood on March 19, 2025. The shooting occurred around 3:45 p.m. near Coleridge-Taylor Montessori Elementary School and Central High School, specifically on West Chestnut Street.
According to LMPD spokespersons, the incident began as an altercation between two unrelated adult parties. Major Bryan Edelen from LMPD stated, “two unrelated adult parties” got into an argument which escalated quickly, resulting in multiple gunshots being fired. It was confirmed that it was not an active aggressor situation, providing reassurance to the surrounding community.
A woman was critically injured in the shooting, suffering a gunshot wound to the stomach. She was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A man at the scene sustained a graze wound but is expected to recover as well.
In response to the incident, a spokesperson for Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) confirmed that all students and staff at the schools in the vicinity were safe. While the shooting did not occur on school property, increased security measures were temporarily put in place at both Coleridge-Taylor Montessori Elementary School and Central High School, where classes were underway. After a brief period of heightened security, rolling dismissal was resumed as police completed their investigation.
Former state representative and Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, Charles Booker, was picking his daughters up from school at the time of the shooting. He described the terrifying experience on social media, recounting, “The popping noise got louder and I quickly realized it was gunfire. Like the parents around me, I tried to maneuver the traffic to speed out of the lot. I told my girls to get low, and prayed that we wouldn’t get hit.”
His emotional response reflects the broader community sentiment as he added, “I am saddened, stunned, angry, and just thanking God we got out of there. My heart is still racing. Praying now that no one got hurt. Our children deserve so much better than this.”
The police have not yet charged any suspects in connection with the shooting; however, authorities believe they know who was involved. Anyone with further information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact LMPD's anonymous crime tip line at 502-574-LMPD (5673) or submit reports online to aid the ongoing investigation.
This troubling incident aligns with concerns urban communities have about rising gun violence, particularly near schools. As this case unfolds, local leaders and law enforcement are calling for a thorough investigation to ensure the safety of the community and prevent future occurrences. The collaboration between LMPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has also been noted, as they assist in tracking down leads related to this violent episode.
The community remains on edge, mindful of the impact of gun violence on families and their children.
