ELIZABETHTOWN, Ky. — A tragic incident unfolded in Elizabethtown early Sunday morning, resulting in the death of a teenager and the arrest of another for murder. Authorities responded to reports of gunfire around 2:30 a.m., discovering a 15-year-old girl with a gunshot wound to the chest in a Lowe’s parking lot.
Upon arrival, officers found Bryan Harbison, 21, performing CPR on the victim. Emergency medical personnel quickly transported her to Baptist Health Hardin, where she was declared dead shortly after arrival. The identity of the victim has not been disclosed at this time.
According to police statements, Harbison stated that he met the two teenage girls via Snapchat and mistakenly believed the victim was 18 years old. After purchasing alcohol, the trio gathered in the parking lot to socialize. Harbison claimed he was in the back seat of his truck with the victim while the other girl sat in the front when the shooting occurred.
Authorities reported that the second teenager admitted to handling a handgun found inside the vehicle, claiming she pointed it at the victim and unintentionally pulled the trigger. Harbison’s account of the situation differed from that of the alleged shooter. He said the handgun was secured in the glove compartment, while she alleged that he placed it on the center console and assured her it was unloaded.
The suspect, whose name has not been released due to her age, has been charged with murder and remains in custody. Harbison is facing charges of third-degree unlawful transaction with a minor and first-degree wanton endangerment, reflecting the serious implications of the late-night gathering.
The investigation continues as police piece together the series of events leading to this tragic outcome. Community members are left grappling with the loss and the circumstances surrounding the incident, prompting questions about gun safety and the responsibilities of adults in supervising minors.
As the legal proceedings get underway, the community of Elizabethtown mourns the life lost, while also examining the broader issues raised by the unfortunate events of that night.