Gregory A. Bush, Hate Crime, Kentucky 2018

In a shocking display of violence, Gregory A. Bush, 53, of Louisville, Kentucky, shot and killed two Black patrons at a Kroger grocery store in Jeffersontown, Kentucky, on October 24, 2018.

Bush, who had pleaded guilty-but-mentally-ill to state charges for murder, attempted murder, and wanton endangerment, was sentenced to life in prison without parole in federal court for his role in the hate crime.

The victims, who were targeted because of the color of their skin, were shot in the parking lot of the Kroger store. The first victim, a Black man, was shot in the back of the head and torso, while the second victim, a Black woman, was shot several times in the head and body.

Bush had no prior relationship with either of the victims and chose to shoot them because of their race. He then re-holstered his gun and calmly walked out of the store.

After shooting the two victims, Bush encountered a third Black man in the parking lot, who was in lawful possession of a handgun. The third victim asked Bush what was going on, and Bush, without responding, began walking toward him with the gun drawn. The third victim fired at Bush, and Bush returned fire.

The Justice Department's Civil Rights Division, along with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, worked tirelessly to bring Bush to justice for his heinous crimes. 'The defendant is being held accountable for his vicious, racially motivated attack on three Black individuals who were targeted because of the color of their skin,' said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke.

Defendant:

Gregory A. Bush

Criminal Charges:

Murder, Attempted Murder, and Wanton Endangerment

City and State:

Jeffersontown, Kentucky

Exact Date:

October 24, 2018

Sentence or Outcome:

Life in prison without parole

Dollar Amounts:

$0

Source: https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/pr/kroger-shooter-sentenced-life-prison-hate-crime-murders