LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Police are trying to piece together what happened outside of the Harvest Homecoming celebration that led to a teenager being killed and two others injured Saturday night.
New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey addressed the public Sunday morning to provide more details in what he called a senseless act of violence.
Officers responded to State Street and Black Avenue near the Floyd County Family YMCA and the ride area of Harvest Homecoming after hearing shots fired just before 10 p.m.
NAPD originally reported a dispute happening outside of Harvest Homecoming but clarified that they believe multiple shooters were firing from different locations.
They thought shots were only fired from the area in the rear of Scribner House on State and Main streets and from the YMCA lot but added an individual may have been firing a gun from the carnival area.
NAPD said they believe at least two groups of individuals were involved in some type of dispute, leading up to the shooting.
The gunfire hit and killed 18-year-old Bryce Gerlach of Corydon, Indiana along with a 22-year-old man and 41-year-old woman who were both injured. Police said all three were innocent bystanders and unrelated to the dispute.
Gerlach was a student at Corydon Central High School. The school released a statement shortly after learning about the tragedy.
“Our hearts are incredibly heavy today as news was revealed that we have lost Bryce Gerlach. There are not enough words to describe the condolences we extend to his family and friends.”
NAPD said multiple employees, police officers, security personnel were in the area immediately after shots were fired. They said officers began helping those where were injured at the scene.
Those believed to be responsible for the shooting had fled the area. They gave a generic description of the suspects – all Black males believed to be in the late teens to early 20s.
Bailey said the Criminal Investigations Division has been working nonstop since the shooting. They have identified several persons of interest.
New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan offered his condolences to Gerlach's family and thanked everyone for springing into action to get others to safety.
"We've enjoyed a safe Harvest Homecoming for nearly 57 years, but sadly, this type of gun violence is now all too common across the United States," he said. "Gun violence at a family festival is heartbreaking and tragic, and our country must find a way to come together to stop this type of violence."
Harvest Homecoming canceled the final day of the fall festival and said it was out of respect from those impacted by the tragedy. Organizers also cited being unable to conduct nightly sanitation and garbage and logistical needs following the emergency shutdown.
If you have any information about the shooting, you are asked to call New Albany Police Dispatch at (812) 944-6411.
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