The H.L. Neblett Community Center is suspending all recreational programming until further notice so that increased security measures can be implemented following a shooting that occurred inside the facility Monday evening. The daycare will resume, and counseling is available for those who need it.
The Owensboro Police Department confirmed at about 7:45 p.m. Monday that a shooting had occurred at the Neblett Center. OPD Public Information Officer Dylan Evans said two individuals were involved in a verbal altercation inside the facility, and that the suspect produced a gun. The victim was shot and transported to the emergency room at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. The victim’s health status has not been disclosed at this time.
Neblett Center Executive Director Martiza Meeks provided the following statement to Owensboro Times just after 11 p.m. Monday:
As some of you are aware, there was a critical incident that occurred this evening at the H.L. Neblett Community Center. An individual entered the building with a concealed weapon and shot another individual in the gym. Our staff responded promptly and called 911. This is now an open investigation, and we want to assure the parents of the H.L. Neblett Community Center that there is no current threat to the safety of the children or staff.
All recreational programming is suspended until further notice and only the daycare will resume. Recreational programming will resume once our Board of Directors and Neblett staff can implement increased security protocols. We take the physical and mental health of our children and community very seriously, and counseling will be available tomorrow for all impacted. We will communicate further as we make these necessary changes.
Our sincere prayers of healing are with all impacted and we hope your prayers are with us.
