LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A violent incident erupted outside a Kentucky driver’s license office, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals, including a young man who was repeatedly shot by two masked attackers. Witnesses recounted the confusion and panic caused by the shootings that occurred in a crowded area.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office released details on Friday, identifying the victims, who were aged between 18 and 33. According to the Louisville Metro Police Department, law enforcement arrived around noon to find one man dead at the scene, while two women sustained serious injuries that led to their deaths after being transported to a local hospital. The deceased were identified as 18-year-old Leslye M. Harbin Jr., who died on site due to multiple gunshot wounds, and two women, 33-year-old Antwanette Chillers and 29-year-old Raysa Pacios Valdes, who succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.
At this time, authorities have not disclosed whether any of the victims were acquainted with one another or the suspects involved in the incident. Witness accounts reveal that the shooting took place at a busy licensing office—where patrons were lined up outside. Jalen Eddings, who had been waiting in line, retreated to his car just before the gunfire erupted. He recounted seeing two masked figures shoot the young man repeatedly, even while he was on the ground, but he did not observe any shots directed towards the women.
“It was shocking; I couldn’t believe it. It felt like something straight out of a movie,” Eddings expressed.
A large police presence quickly converged on the scene at the Driver Licensing Office located on the southern edge of Louisville. Evidence markers were placed around a designated area roughly 20 feet from the building’s entrance later that afternoon. Speaking to the media, Police Maj. Donald Boeckman confirmed that the shooter fled the scene in a vehicle, though details regarding the car’s description remain unclear as investigators comb through surveillance footage.
“It’s an absolute tragedy. I’m surprised more people weren’t injured,” Boeckman stated emphatically.
As of Saturday, police spokesman Aaron Ellis reported that there have been no new developments in the search for the suspects involved. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear took to social media to condemn the shooting, labeling it as “a senseless act of violence.”
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, responsible for operating the licensing office, indicated in a news release that security protocols were activated promptly following the shooting, ensuring that all employees were unharmed during the incident. Additional witness accounts included that of Ali Raza, who described hearing numerous gunshots while inside the office. He praised a security guard for acting swiftly and instructing everyone to take cover.
“He told us to get down and get on the ground. He basically saved us,” Raza declared, emphasizing the rapid response during such a terrifying situation.
