Family Identifies Woman Shot in Louisville’s Newburg Neighborhood; Police Say Gunman Was Killed After Confrontation
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — The family of Tiffany Reiner, a woman who was shot in the head early Monday morning in Louisville’s Newburg neighborhood, says the violence erupted during a birthday party before police arrived and fatally shot the alleged gunman.
According to Louisville Metro Police (LMPD), the shooting happened around 2 a.m. Monday in the 5500 block of Ridgecrest Road, where officers responded to reports of gunfire and a woman critically injured.
Family Says Shooting Happened During Son’s Birthday Party
Reiner’s family told WAVE News that the shooting occurred during a birthday celebration for her 20-year-old son at their home. The son said he was standing next to his mother when she was shot in the head by a man identified as 20-year-old Frank Mejia Aguilar.
“One of my friends started arguing with my mom and then shot her,” Reiner’s son told reporters off-camera.
The family said the evening began as a small, joyful gathering before tensions suddenly escalated into tragedy.
Police: Armed Suspect Confronted Officers at Scene
When LMPD officers arrived, they found Reiner suffering from a gunshot wound. Before they could reach her, they were confronted by Aguilar, who was holding a handgun.
Officers ordered Aguilar to drop the weapon, but he allegedly walked toward them while raising the gun, prompting one officer to fire his service weapon, striking him.
Both Reiner and Aguilar were transported to University Hospital in critical condition. Aguilar later died from his injuries, while Reiner remains hospitalized, fighting for her life.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed Aguilar’s identity late Monday.
Investigation and Body Camera Review Underway
LMPD confirmed that the Public Integrity Unit is investigating the shooting. Body-worn camera footage from the responding officers will be released within ten days, following department policy.
“This tragic event unfolded very quickly,” said Assistant Chief Emily McKinley. “Our officers responded to protect lives, and thankfully no officers or other bystanders were injured.”
Police said the incident remains under investigation as detectives work to determine what led to the initial argument and shooting at the residence.
Community Shaken by Violence
The Newburg community, already on edge after several violent incidents this year, expressed sadness over another deadly confrontation. Neighbors described the Reiner family as “kind and close-knit,” saying the tragedy has deeply affected the area.
Officials urged residents to support Reiner’s recovery and to come forward with any additional information that could assist investigators.
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