Community Mobilizes for Support Amid Rising Gun Violence in Lexington

LEXINGTON, Ky. — In the wake of a series of violent incidents over the weekend, a local organization is mobilizing resources to support the community. In light of the recent attempts on lives, the need for continued advocacy and intervention remains critical.

On Saturday night, a shooting on East 5th Street resulted in a fatality, marking the city’s 16th homicide of the year, which is six fewer than this time last year. The violence continued into the following day, when police reported three additional injuries stemming from a shooting along Versailles Road.

In response to the escalating violence, ONE Lexington, an organization dedicated to community support, reaffirmed its commitment to providing essential resources. Crisis Response Coordinator Kenneth Payne stated, “We hear about it, we see it on the news, but it’s still kind of distant from us, if we’re not the victims.” He emphasized the profound impact of gun violence, especially on families who suffer losses.

The organization has already planned a visit to a young boy who was injured in a shooting incident on Friday morning. He was shot but is currently in stable condition. “We’ll be going to see that family and that young boy as his birthday is approaching. It’s important for us to show our support,” Payne added.

Despite a noted decline in homicides, Payne reiterated the necessity for ongoing community engagement: “Sometimes we like to talk about it, but what are we going to do as a community? We need to work together as good neighbors.”

To facilitate this, ONE Lexington will hold a support event in the East End area on Wednesday at 6 p.m. The initiative will offer resources, including free mental health support, youth mentoring, and various support groups tailored to those affected by violence.

The organization seeks not only to provide aid in times of crisis but also to foster dialogue around community safety and well-being. As Lexington confronts ongoing challenges related to gun violence, community support remains a vital component in the healing process.