Gunfire and Chaos Erupt at Hartford Funeral — Multiple Injured in Shocking Church Attack
HARTFORD, Conn. (May 9, 2025) — A solemn funeral service turned into a scene of chaos and violence Friday morning at the Gospel Lighthouse Apostolic Church on Main Street in Hartford, where gunfire and a stabbing incident left multiple individuals injured, according to Hartford Police.
The incident unfolded shortly after 10:27 a.m., when police began receiving multiple 911 calls reporting shots fired inside the church located at 2003 Main Street. Responding officers arrived to find evidence of a violent altercation, with signs of both a shooting and a stabbing that disrupted the service and caused panic among mourners.
According to Lt. Aaron Boisvert, officers recovered four shell casings inside the sanctuary and another just outside the building. The exact sequence of events remains unclear, but authorities confirm that the violence erupted during the funeral itself.
Victims Transported for Treatment
Initial reports indicate that a female gunshot victim left the scene before law enforcement arrived. She transported herself to Saint Francis Hospital, where her injuries were reported to be non-life-threatening.
In addition, one or two individuals sustained facial injuries—believed to have resulted from a physical altercation—and also sought treatment at Saint Francis Hospital.
Then, shortly before 10:45 a.m., a male victim arrived at the same hospital with a stab wound to the leg. Police have since confirmed that his injuries were directly related to the same church incident.
Active Investigation Underway
The Gospel Lighthouse Apostolic Church, known in the community for hosting large services, was quickly secured by Hartford Police as detectives from the Major Crimes Division began conducting interviews, collecting physical evidence, and working to determine the exact nature of the confrontation.
“Something clearly broke out during this funeral, and it escalated quickly,” said Lt. Boisvert. “We have multiple people injured, including one gunshot victim and a stabbing victim. At this point, we are reviewing all possible angles, including surveillance footage and witness statements.”
Despite the large police presence and active crime scene, no arrests had been made as of Friday afternoon. Authorities have not released any names of the individuals involved or confirmed whether the violence stemmed from a personal dispute, gang-related conflict, or another motive.
Community Shocked and Seeking Answers
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly among those in attendance at the funeral, many of whom fled the church in panic. Several residents expressed their disbelief that such violence could erupt in a house of worship, especially during a service meant to honor the deceased.
“I just can’t believe it,” said one witness, who declined to be named. “We came to say goodbye to someone we loved, and instead we were running for our lives.”
Hartford has seen sporadic bursts of violence in recent months, but this incident has drawn particular concern because of its setting — a church — and the fact that it happened during a funeral service.
Police Asking for Public’s Help
The Hartford Police Department is actively seeking information to help piece together what led to the altercation. Anyone who was at the scene or has information is encouraged to contact the Major Crimes Division at (860) 757-4000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Updates will be provided as more details emerge.