Lexington Police were called to the scene of a shooting that took place outside Brothers Bar and Grill on Winchester Road around 2:30 a.m. on the weekend, resulting in two people being injured. Store owner Jocelyn Bornelus, who opened JF Bongout Bakery & Grocery next door in July 2023, expressed concerns about crime being common in the area.
Bornelus, along with his brother, fulfilled their American dream of opening a shop that sells traditional Haitian snacks and Caribbean cuisine, catering to both the local Haitian community and introducing a new culture to Lexington residents. However, after eight months in business, the Caribbean pride in the shop has been overshadowed by the prevalence of crime in the neighborhood.
Recounting an incident where he witnessed a person being arrested by police early in the morning when he was coming to prepare pastries for the day, Bornelus shared how recent shootings near his store have raised safety concerns for him and his patrons. Despite being contractually bound to the location for three years, Bornelus worries that Winchester Road may not have been the best choice for his business.
The shooting that occurred on Winchester Road is still under investigation by police, who are seeking information from the public through Bluegrass Crime Stoppers. The community remains on edge due to the recent incidents of violence in the area.
