New Albany Police Chief Says 18-Year-Old Killed, 2 Injured in Shooting Near Harvest Homecoming Were ‘Innocent Bystanders’
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Police are investigating a tragic incident that occurred outside the Harvest Homecoming celebration, resulting in the death of a teenager and injuries to two others on Saturday night.
New Albany Police Chief Todd Bailey addressed the community on Sunday morning, labeling the shooting a senseless act of violence. Officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area of State Street and Black Avenue, right near the Floyd County Family YMCA and the carnival rides at Harvest Homecoming, shortly before 10 p.m.
Initially, the New Albany Police Department (NAPD) indicated that a dispute had occurred outside the festival but later revised their statement, revealing that multiple shooters were firing from different locations. They initially thought that the gunfire originated solely from the vicinity of Scribner House on State and Main streets and the YMCA parking lot, but acquired information suggesting that an individual might have also been firing from within the carnival area.
The police stated they believe at least two groups of individuals were engaged in a dispute that led to the gunfire.
The tragic incident claimed the life of 18-year-old Bryce Gerlach from Corydon, Indiana. Additionally, a 22-year-old man and a 41-year-old woman were injured. NAPD confirmed that all three individuals were innocent bystanders and had no connection to the ongoing dispute.
Gerlach was a student at Corydon Central High School. The school community expressed their sorrow, releasing a statement that read, “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.”
In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, multiple police officers and security personnel were present in the area. They began rendering aid to the injured victims on the scene.
As the investigation unfolded, those believed to be responsible for the shooting fled the area. Officers provided a general description of the suspects: all are Black males believed to be in their late teens to early 20s.
Bailey informed the public that the Criminal Investigations Division has been tirelessly working on the case ever since the shooting, and they have identified several persons of interest.
New Albany Mayor Jeff Gahan offered condolences to Gerlach’s family and expressed gratitude towards those who acted quickly to ensure the safety of others during the chaotic situation. “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 stated. “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.”
In light of the tragedy, Harvest Homecoming officials decided to cancel the final day of the festival. They cited their respect for those impacted by the incident as well as logistical challenges in the aftermath of the emergency situation, including the inability to manage sanitation and garbage collection.
If anyone has information regarding the shooting, they are encouraged to contact New Albany Police Dispatch at (812) 944-6411.
