Lexington, September 23, 2025
News Summary
A 20-year-old man, Jon’tay Mattingly, has been charged with first-degree assault following a shooting at a bus stop in Lexington. The victim, who remains unnamed, is in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the head. Mattingly was arrested after being identified through surveillance footage. He faces additional charges, including wanton endangerment and tampering with evidence. This incident has heightened community concerns regarding safety in public spaces, prompting law enforcement to increase patrols and hold public discussions on youth violence and safety measures.
Lexington – Jon’tay Mattingly, a 20-year-old man, has been charged with first-degree assault following a shooting incident that left a man in critical condition. The shooting occurred at a bus stop on Thursday morning, September 18, near the intersection of Winburn Drive and McCullough Drive.
The victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, sustained a gunshot wound to the head and is currently receiving treatment at UK Hospital. Medical reports indicate that he remains in critical condition, prompting an investigation by local authorities.
Surveillance footage from the area captured two individuals fleeing the scene shortly after the shooting. Mattingly was identified as one of the suspects, primarily due to his distinctive gray zip-up jacket, which matched that recorded in the footage. Authorities also noted that Mattingly was wearing an ankle monitor at the time of his arrest, linking him to the incident, as he is currently on probation for a prior offense.
Law enforcement apprehended Mattingly just after midnight following the incident. Besides first-degree assault, he now faces additional charges, including three counts of wanton endangerment, criminal mischief, and tampering with physical evidence. His bond has been set at $85,000.
During his initial court appearance, Mattingly entered a not guilty plea. He is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on September 29, where further legal proceedings will be discussed.
This is not Mattingly’s first encounter with law enforcement. He was previously arrested in October 2024 in connection to the murder of 17-year-old Kenlon Johnson. However, those charges were dismissed by a grand jury, allowing him to avoid prosecution for that incident.
The recent shooting has raised concerns in the Lexington community about public safety, especially near areas frequented by residents. Local officials encourage anyone with information about the incident to come forward to aid in ongoing investigations.
Community Reaction
The Lexington community is grappling with the implications of this troubling event. Residents in the vicinity of the shooting have expressed concern for their safety, calling for measures to enhance security at public spaces like bus stops. The incident has sparked discussions about youth violence and the importance of mental health resources.
Law enforcement agencies are also stepping up patrols in the area to reassure residents and deter potential criminal activity. Public meetings are expected to be held to address community concerns and discuss possible preventive strategies.
Background Information
The shooting at the bus stop marks a significant incident in Lexington’s recent history of violent crimes. Local law enforcement notes that such acts can often be traced back to underlying issues within the community, including access to resources and supportive programs for at-risk youth.
As investigations continue, authorities remain focused on ensuring justice for the victim while addressing broader issues affecting public safety in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges has Jon’tay Mattingly faced?
Jon’tay Mattingly has been charged with first-degree assault, wanton endangerment, criminal mischief, and tampering with physical evidence.
What is the current condition of the shooting victim?
The victim is in critical condition and is currently hospitalized at UK Hospital.
When is Jon’tay Mattingly’s next court appearance?
Jon’tay Mattingly is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on September 29.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Intersection of Winburn Drive and McCullough Drive |
| Date of Incident | September 18 |
| Charges | First-degree assault, wanton endangerment, criminal mischief, tampering with physical evidence |
| Victim’s Condition | Critical |
| Mattingly’s Bond | $85,000 |
| Next Court Date | September 29 |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 56 News: 1 Hurt in Lexington Neighborhood Shooting
- Wikipedia: Crime in the United States
- LEX18: Report – Lexington Fire on the Scene of Shooting with a Victim
- Google Search: Lexington crime news
- Kentucky: Lexington Shooting Updates
- Google Scholar: Crime and Public Safety
- Fox 56 News: Large Police Presence Reported Near Winburn Drive in Lexington
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Criminal Justice
- Kentucky: Lexington Police Investigation
- Google News: Lexington shooting
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