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Shooting in downtown Louisville connected to weekend illegal street takeovers, LMPD says

LMPD said the shooting is "connected directly" to several reports of illegal street takeovers across Jefferson County over Labor Day weekend.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — One person was shot in downtown Louisville during a night of illegal street takeovers across the Metro over Labor Day weekend, police say.

Louisville Metro Police (LMPD) said a man, who was suffering from a gunshot wound, showed up at the hospital around 1:30 a.m. on Sunday. 

Authorities believe the man was shot near Second Street and River Road.

The victim is expected to survive his injuries. 

LMPD's Non-Fatal Shooting Unit is investigating the shooting.

"We only get one chance at this game called life and once it's over there is no coming back," community member Elgina Smith said.

On Monday, an LMPD spokesperson confirmed the shooting is "connected directly" to several reports of "illegal street racing" across Jefferson County late Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

"Our sincere hope is those who are contemplating such activity make the adult choice to find a more safe and legal form of entertainment," LMPD said in a statement. "If you are a person who is considering participating in these events, please know: you are responsible for the harm it causes, and we will make every effort to ensure you are held accountable."

Smith said Sunday's shooting in connection to the reckless driving could've been worse. 

"As a mother of a child that has been taken, every time I hear a gun incident, just young people being reckless and not really taking life as it is a precious gift, it's heart clenching," Smith said.

She's concerned about safety and said more people could've gotten hurt that night.

"This is something that is done in a boastful manner and in a unpredictable manner," said Smith. "There's two type of people, 'sayers' and doers; when you see something, say something."

Now she wants to see more action from the community and expects to see more people held responsible.

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