A Kentucky school community is mourning the loss of a beloved teacher and high school volleyball coach.
Keyata Harman, 52, was found dead next to her husband, Brian Harman, 54, at their home near Bardstown on Tuesday. Both had suffered fatal gunshot wounds, according to the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office.
The Nelson County Coroner’s Office later confirmed that the incident was a murder-suicide and identified the couple.
Keyata was a teacher at Bardstown Middle School and also served as head volleyball coach at Nelson County High School. Her death has left students, colleagues, and families grieving.
After the horrible tragedy, Bardstown City Schools Superintendent Ryan Clark addressed what had happened in a message to families, saying it was “an exceptionally sad time for our school and our community,” according to the New York Post.
Keyata Harman was a volleyball coach
School principal Matt Bartley also paid tribute to the educator, highlighting the lasting difference she made in the lives of those around her.
“She made lasting impressions on countless students and colleagues in her time at Bardstown Middle. Her impact will be felt for years to come,” Bartley said, according to WLKY.com.
The murder-suicide happened only weeks after Keyata had taken the final steps to end the marriage. She filed for divorce on October 15, having first separated from Brian in September last year.
According to the Lexington Herald-Leader, Brian shot his estranged wife before turning the gun on himself.
A neighbor described the shock of learning what had happened. She said she had heard gunfire late Monday night but initially believed it came from people hunting in the area.
The couple had four children
Nancy Ulrich, who lived near the couple, said she was: “Devastated that could have happened here and to my neighbors. It was a blow definitely.
“I didn’t only consider her my neighbor, but I considered her my friend.”
The couple’s children have launched a GoFundMe after their parent’s sudden death, writing: “It is with a heavy and broken heart that we have to create this.
“Our mom, Keyata, and dad, Brian, were loved by so many. Our parents had four children who they loved so dearly, and we each have heard your outreach and appreciate all the kind messages and thoughtful gifts we have received.”
They continued: “Any contributions will go directly to the four children, Brianna, Kira, Brody, and brazan. Though this is never where we thought we’d be, anything can help with the unprecedented losses.
“We feel the community and love outpouring for our family, and we hope that you can feel it from us. Sending love to all those whose lives they touched.”
Where to get help
On the topic of mental health and suicide, don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you, or someone you know, is struggling, you can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741, or contact the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990.
If your distress feels unbearable, or if you have suicidal thoughts or plans, contact a psychiatric emergency unit immediately or call 911.
For more information about available resources, visit Mental Health America at mhanational.org.
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