#Louisville #BreakingNews #GunViolence
Louisville, KY – A routine evening turned tragic on Friday night as a shooting in the parking lot of a Kroger grocery store left two people dead and one critically injured, according to the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD). The incident occurred shortly after 8:00 p.m. in the 500 block of West Broadway, sending shockwaves through the community and reigniting urgent conversations about gun violence in the city.
The Incident
According to preliminary reports from MPD, officers responded to multiple calls of shots fired in the busy Kroger parking lot. Upon arrival, they discovered three individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Two victims—a man and a woman—were pronounced dead at the scene. A third victim, whose identity has not yet been released, was transported to University of Louisville Hospital in critical condition.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with shoppers ducking for cover as gunfire erupted. “It was terrifying. One moment we were loading groceries into the car, the next we were hearing what sounded like fireworks—only they weren’t,” said Clara Jenkins, a witness who was nearby when the shooting occurred.
Investigation Underway
LMPD’s Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims pending notification of next of kin, and no arrests have been made as of Saturday morning. Police believe this may not have been a random act of violence and are actively pursuing leads.
“We are working diligently to piece together what happened,” said Lt. Col. Steve Clark during a brief press conference late Friday night. “We’re asking anyone with information or video footage to come forward. The community’s cooperation is vital in helping us solve this case.”
Surveillance footage from the Kroger and nearby businesses is being reviewed, and forensic teams remained at the scene overnight to collect evidence.
Community Reaction
The shooting has left residents shaken. Local leaders and community members gathered near the site early Saturday morning to offer prayers and support for the victims’ families. “We are heartbroken,” said Pastor Angela Rowe, who helped organize a candlelight vigil at the nearby park. “Our community cannot become numb to this kind of violence.”
Many residents are also calling on local and state officials to implement stronger preventative measures. “This shouldn’t be happening in a place where families shop for groceries,” said Malik Thomas, a community activist. “We need better policing, better outreach, and more resources for conflict resolution.”
Kroger’s Response
In a statement released Saturday morning, Kroger officials expressed condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed their cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
“We are deeply saddened by this senseless act of violence. The safety of our customers and associates is our top priority, and we are working closely with law enforcement. Our hearts go out to all those affected,” the statement read.
The store will remain closed until further notice, and grief counselors have been made available to staff members.
Ongoing Coverage
This incident marks yet another heartbreaking chapter in Louisville’s struggle with rising gun violence. According to local data, homicides and non-fatal shootings have risen steadily over the past two years, with community leaders and law enforcement agencies searching for sustainable solutions.
As the investigation continues, LMPD urges anyone with information to call their anonymous tip line at (502) 574-LMPD.
This story is developing. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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