Police Fatally Shoot Woman During Mental Health Call in Louisville

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Louisville Metro Police officers fatally shot a 28-year-old woman on Friday after she charged at them with a 'large, sharp object' during a mental health crisis call at an apartment complex. Police had responded to reports of the woman experiencing a mental health episode and making suicidal statements, and attempted to de-escalate the situation before she exited the bathroom and confronted the officers.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to mental health emergencies, and the need for improved crisis intervention training and resources to avoid deadly outcomes. It also raises questions about the use of force policies and whether alternative approaches could have de-escalated the situation without lethal force.

The details

According to authorities, police were called to the 9800 block of Vieux Carre Drive around 7:45 p.m. on a report of a person experiencing a mental health crisis. They found a 28-year-old woman with self-inflicted lacerations who was armed with a piece of glass or other edged weapon and barricaded in a bathroom. Police tried to verbally de-escalate the situation and requested less-lethal tools, but the woman continued making 'agitated, suicidal statements.' When the fire department forced entry into the bathroom, the woman exited and charged at officers with the sharp object, prompting two officers to open fire and fatally shoot her.

• Police responded to the call around 7:45 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026.
• The woman was pronounced dead at the University of Louisville Hospital.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Louisville Metro Police Department's Public Integrity unit is investigating the shooting, and the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol. The department will release additional information and body camera footage from the incident within 10 business days.