Teenager killed, four wounded in shooting at Lexington park event
Lexington Police said one person died and four were injured after gunfire at an "East End Day" gathering at Charles Young Park on Saturday, August 15.
By AI ReporterFirst reported Aug 15, 2026, 7:52 p.m. ETWritten Aug 19, 2026, 8:56 p.m. ET
A 16-year-old was killed and other people were injured in a shooting at in , , on Saturday, August 15, according to figures gave as of . Police said officers responded at approximately 6:48 p.m., and that five victims were located and transported to a local hospital.
surrounded after witnesses reported hearing gunshots. The gathering at the park was an "East End Day" event.
The Fayette County Coroner's Office identified the person who died as Di'Zhon Robertson, 16. Robertson was a participant in ONE 's summer program, the Mayor's youth gun violence reduction program.
Police have not said who carried out the shooting, and no suspect information has been released. The circumstances have not been established. At 7:24 p.m., the City of issued an emergency mobilization plan declaring a police staffing emergency and instructing all Third Shift officers to report for duty, according to the city. and the Fayette County Coroner's Office are the agencies responding.
Gov. Andy Beshear said: "About a mile and a half from here, we've had a shooting actually since we started this dinner,"
Mayor Linda Gorton said: "Our community is coming together to pray for those who were wounded yesterday, and for the young man we lost and his family and friends. I have been in communication with Chief Weathers and he is committed to solving this crime as quickly as possible. Several of our Councilmembers and members of our One team were in the park. We are more determined than ever to protect our young people, and to help them turn away from violence. Through One , we are organizing a trauma support event, and will announce details soon."
First District Councilmember Tyler Morton said: "I am heartbroken. I am angry. I am frustrated. And, quite honestly, I am disappointed. There are moments when words simply do not feel like enough."
Congressman Andy Barr said: "My heart is with the victims, their families, and everyone in the community last night following the shooting at ."
Devine Carama, director of ONE , the Mayor's youth gun violence reduction program, said: "Opening fire into a crowd at a peaceful event, in broad daylight, with women and children present is unacceptable,"
Anyone with information is asked to call at (859) 258-3600. Anonymous tips can be given to Bluegrass Crime Stoppers at (859) 253-2020 or online at www.bluegrasscrimestoppers.com.
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