LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A tragic shooting outside a Kentucky driver’s license office on Friday resulted in the deaths of three individuals, including an 18-year-old male victim who was targeted by masked assailants.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed the identities of the victims, stating they ranged in age from 18 to 33 years. Authorities responded around noon and discovered one man deceased at the scene, along with two women who succumbed to their injuries after being transported to a hospital, as reported by local police.
The coroner identified the deceased as 18-year-old Leslye M. Harbin Jr., who died from multiple gunshot wounds, while 33-year-old Antwanette Chillers and 29-year-old Raysa Pacios Valdes died from gunshot injuries sustained during the incident.
Details surrounding the relationships among the victims and potential ties to the assailants remain unclear. Eyewitness accounts describe a scene of chaos in a busy office filled with patrons. One witness recounted that he had stepped outside to his car to avoid the long line when the shooting erupted. He observed two masked individuals firing at the man, who was shot repeatedly, even while on the ground.
“It was shocking, like a scene from a movie,” the witness expressed.
Emergency responders flooded the state Driver Licensing Office located on the southern outskirts of Louisville following the incident. Evidence markers were placed around the area, indicating the severity of the shooting. Police officials reported that the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle, but no descriptions have been released, with investigators currently sifting through surveillance footage.
“It’s absolutely a tragedy, and I’m surprised more people weren’t injured,” stated a police major present at the scene.
In a statement, the police department’s spokesperson noted that there were no updates on the search for suspects as of Saturday. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear condemned the incident as a “senseless act of violence” through a public statement.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, which oversees the licensing office, announced that security measures were promptly enacted following the shooting, ensuring the safety of all employees.
Another witness described the terrifying moments inside the office, recalling the sounds of gunfire and ensuing panic. A security guard acted swiftly to instruct patrons to take cover, which he credited with helping to avert further injuries.
