Tragedy in Louisville: Five Killed, Eight Injured in Bank Shooting; Gunman Legally Purchased High-Powered Rifle from Local Dealer

Five people were killed and eight others were injured in a shooting at an Old National Bank branch in Louisville, Kentucky on Monday. Louisville Metro Police Department Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel revealed at a press conference Tuesday that the gunman, 25-year-old James Tutt, had legally purchased the high-powered rifle used in the attack from a local dealership on April 4.

Chief Gwinn-Villaroel said that Tutt had purchased the AR-15-style weapon legally from an authorized seller. Congressman Morgan McGarvey, a Democrat who represents Louisville, also revealed that Tutt had sent disturbing text messages signaling he was considering harming himself before Monday’s shooting.

The shooting occurred around 9:00 a.m. Monday morning and police were on the scene within minutes. Tutt was apprehended shortly after the shooting and is currently in custody. The investigation is ongoing and police are still trying to determine a motive for the attack.

The tragedy has sparked a renewed debate about gun control in the state of Kentucky. Governor Andy Beshear has called for stricter gun laws, saying “We must do more to protect our communities from gun violence.” He also urged the state legislature to pass a red flag law, which would allow family members and law enforcement to petition a court to temporarily remove firearms from individuals who are deemed to be a danger to themselves or others.

The victims of the shooting have been identified as David Merritt, 53; Richard Newcomer, 64; Trina K. Smith, 42; Kevin S. Kramer, 48; and Brian E. Henry, 57. Our thoughts are with their families and friends during this difficult time.