On February 21, 2025, a tragic shooting occurred outside the Kentucky Driver Licensing Regional Office on Willismore Drive in Louisville, resulting in the deaths of three individuals. The victims were identified by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office as 18-year-old Leslye M. Harbin Jr., who died at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds; 33-year-old Antwanette Chillers; and 29-year-old Raysa Pacios Valdes, both of whom succumbed to their injuries at the hospital.
**Witness Accounts Suggest Targeted Attack**
Witnesses described a chaotic scene that unfolded around noon. Jalen Eddings, who was present at the time, recounted that after returning to his car due to the long line inside the office, he observed two masked individuals approach and repeatedly shoot Harbin, even as he lay on the ground. Eddings noted, “I just stayed in my car and watched the whole thing unfold right before my eyes.”
Another witness, Alicia Webb, detailed the panic that ensued: “Other people ran that way to their cars. Someone grabbed me from behind, grabbed me like a shield, and then the cops said, ‘Everybody get inside, get inside.'”
James Keith, who was in his vehicle during the incident, described hearing gunshots and witnessing people fleeing in terror. He expressed his fear, stating, “You don’t think that you would be out anywhere and it could happen around you or anything. And it’s just scared me. It’s very scary.”
**Authorities’ Response and Ongoing Investigation**
Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officers responded promptly to the scene. Major Donald Boeckman indicated that the suspects fled in a vehicle, and investigators are reviewing surveillance footage to gather more information. He remarked, “It’s absolutely a tragedy, and I’m surprised there wasn’t more people injured.”
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, which oversees the licensing office, commended the swift actions of the on-site security team for immediately locking down the building, ensuring the safety of employees and other patrons. They confirmed that no staff members were harmed during the incident.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addressed the shooting, calling it “a senseless act of violence” and extending his condolences to the victims’ families.
**Community Impact and Reflection**
The shooting has deeply affected the Louisville community, raising concerns about safety in public spaces. The targeted nature of the attack, as suggested by witness accounts, underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and security measures.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in apprehending those responsible and to provide closure to the grieving families.
