U.S. Shootings
4 killed, 3 injured in Florence, Kentucky mass shooting
As the investigation continues, the Florence Police Department is expected to provide further updates
Florence, Kentucky – A tragic mass shooting at a 21st birthday party in Florence, Kentucky, has left four people dead and three others injured. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, has shocked the local community and prompted an ongoing investigation by law enforcement.
The Florence Police Department received multiple calls about an active shooter at a residence on Ridgecrest Drive at approximately 2:51 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered a horrifying scene: four individuals had been fatally shot, and three others were suffering from gunshot wounds. The injured were promptly transported to UC Medical Center in Cincinnati, where they are currently listed in critical but stable condition.
The victims of this senseless act of violence have been identified as Melissa Parrett, Shane Miller, Hayden Rybicki, and Delaney Eary. Parrett was hosting the birthday party for her son when the shooting erupted. The three injured individuals, whose names have not been released, are expected to recover fully.
The suspect, identified as 21-year-old Chase Garvey, was not an invited guest at the party but was known to some of the attendees. According to witnesses, Garvey fled the scene in a vehicle immediately after the shooting. Law enforcement officers quickly located his vehicle near Farmview Drive and US 42, leading to a pursuit. The chase ended when Garvey's car veered off the road and into a ditch on Dale Heimbrock Way near Hicks Pike. Officers found Garvey with a self-inflicted gunshot wound; he was transported to St. Elizabeth Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Chief Jeff Mallery of the Florence Police Department expressed deep sorrow over the incident, highlighting the emotional toll on the community. "This is an unprecedented event for our city," Mallery said during a press briefing. "Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, and we are committed to providing all necessary support to those affected by this tragedy."
The Boone County coroner, Missy Rittinger, confirmed that the deceased victims were all adults, consisting of two women and two men. The motive behind Garvey's actions remains unclear, and authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
The Florence Police Department, with assistance from the Boone County Sheriff's Office, is conducting a thorough investigation. They have reassured the public that there is no ongoing threat, as Garvey is believed to have acted alone.
The community of Florence, located approximately 12 miles southwest of Cincinnati, Ohio, is grappling with the aftermath of its first mass shooting. Local organizations, including the Florence Church of God, have expressed their condolences and are offering support to the victims' families. "This tragedy has deeply affected our congregation," a church representative stated. "We are here to support our community in any way we can during this difficult time."
This incident marks the 277th mass shooting in the United States in 2024, according to data from the Gun Violence Archive. The organization defines a mass shooting as an incident in which four or more individuals, excluding the perpetrator, are shot.
As the investigation continues, the Florence Police Department is expected to provide further updates. In the meantime, the city is coming together to mourn the loss of life and to support those who have been impacted by this devastating event.
For those seeking to assist the victims' families, local authorities have set up a fund to help cover medical and funeral expenses. Donations can be made through the Florence Police Department's official channels.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States, prompting calls for reflection and unity in the face of such senseless acts.