Shooter report triggers lockdown at Junior National Hereford Expo

On Sunday, reports of an active shooter at the Kentucky Exposition Center led to the evacuation of roughly 40,000 people, including participants of the Junior National Hereford Expo.

According to news reports and Louisville Metro Police, a 911 call was received around 3:15 p.m. reporting an “active aggressor” at the Expo Center, during a time when multiple events were taking place, including the Run for the Roses basketball tournament and JNHE. Attendees reported panic spreading quickly, with emergency alarms sounding and large crowds attempting to exit buildings.

Authorities responded immediately, deploying officers, EMS, and fire personnel. Attendees at JNHE were instructed to shelter in place inside Broadbent Arena. American Hereford Association staff coordinated with law enforcement to keep participants informed while ensuring that youth and families remained safe.

No shots were fired and no weapons were found, according to police. However, at least six people sustained minor injuries, such as scrapes and bruises, during the evacuation process. Two individuals were taken to the hospital. Louisville Metro Police later confirmed there was no credible threat and reopened the venue by 6 p.m. Sunday.

“Preliminary findings indicate that there was NOT an active aggressor on our property, and reports were false,” the Kentucky Expo Center said in a statement. “As part of the investigation into Sunday’s incident, we can confirm that our fire alarm system did make audible alerts in portions of the buildings. A duct smoke sensor generated the alert. Our system review is ongoing, but we wanted to confirm that the fire system is not utilized for alert purposes beyond smoke detection. The fire system is routinely inspected and complies with the State Fire Marshall’s Office & NFPA life safety standards.”

JNHE participants and livestock were not in the vicinity of the initial emergency call but were affected by the lockdown and subsequent evacuation orders.

The suspect, according to some accounts, there is video footage circulating where an individual was reportedly detained near the livestock tie-out area. While local authorities have not confirmed the presence of a weapon, LMPD’s Homeland Security unit has opened an investigation into the incident.

The Junior National Hereford Expo continued its scheduled events Monday with increased security and continued coordination with Expo Center officials. JNHE brings together hundreds of youth exhibitors from across the country, many of whom travel with their families and livestock. The event plays an important role in youth agricultural education, livestock evaluation, and community building within the cattle industry.

As for the basketball tournament, the expo center said, “Out of an abundance of caution, Run 4 The Roses has added additional security measures starting July 14, including metal detection and full bag searches upon entry. We’d like to ask guests and participants of the event to plan accordingly.”

The Kentucky Expo Center plays hosts to several agricultural events each year, including the National Farm Machinery Show in February.