LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A shooting in Elizabethtown early Sunday morning has resulted in the death of a 15-year-old girl and the arrest of another teen on murder charges. The incident, which unfolded around 2:30 a.m., has raised serious concerns about teen access to firearms and the potential consequences of reckless behavior.
Police responded to the Lowe’s parking lot after receiving reports of a female victim with a gunshot wound to the chest. When officers arrived, they found Bryan Harbison, 21, performing CPR on the injured girl. The victim was quickly transported to Baptist Health Hardin, where she was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
The victim’s identity has not yet been disclosed pending notification of her family. Harbison told investigators he had met both girls through social media and believed one of them was of legal drinking age. He admitted to purchasing alcohol before they met, and the trio allegedly gathered in the parking lot to drink.
Witness accounts indicate that Harbison was in the back seat of his truck alongside the victim when the shooting occurred, while the other 15-year-old sat in the front seat. During questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted to handling a handgun she found in the vehicle, aiming it at the victim, and pulling the trigger.
Authorities noted discrepancies in the teenagers’ testimonies regarding the gun’s location and handling. The suspect claimed Harbison had placed the firearm on the center console, insisting he had told her it was not loaded. Conversely, Harbison asserted that the weapon was locked away in the glove compartment and that the other girl accessed it without his consent.
As of now, the suspected shooter remains in custody and faces murder charges. In connection with the incident, Harbison has been charged with third-degree unlawful transaction with a minor and first-degree wanton endangerment, reflecting the serious nature of the event.
The case highlights ongoing issues surrounding youth and gun safety, shedding light on the often-overlooked consequences of underage drinking and access to firearms. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, emphasizing the need for community awareness and proactive measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The local community and law enforcement officials are urging discussions about gun safety and responsible behavior among teens to promote a safer environment for all.