Police Search, Fire Data and Sweet Sixteen Take Center Stage in Lexington

It’s a busy week across the Bluegrass, with public safety updates and March basketball drawing attention downtown.

Police Searching for Suspect After Traffic Stop

Lexington police are continuing their search for a man who fled a traffic stop near New Circle Road and Leestown Road. Officers say the driver ran from the scene on foot, prompting a coordinated search in the surrounding area.

No injuries were reported in connection with the stop. Police have not released the suspect’s name but say the investigation remains active. Anyone with information is asked to contact Lexington police.

Structure Fires Slightly Up in Early 2026

The Lexington Fire Department has released new data showing a slight uptick in structure fires so far this year.

From January 1 through early March, crews responded to 35 structure fire dispatches. Sixteen of those were classified as working fires, meaning crews encountered active flames requiring suppression.

Officials say the numbers are slightly higher than the same period last year, though still in line with recent trends. Fire leaders continue to stress the importance of working smoke alarms and home safety planning.

Sweet Sixteen Brings Crowds Downtown

March in Lexington also means the return of the KHSAA Boys’ Sweet Sixteen at Rupp Arena. The single-elimination state tournament is once again drawing teams and fans from across Kentucky to downtown.

Local businesses are seeing an uptick in foot traffic as visitors fill hotels and restaurants. City officials encourage drivers to expect heavier traffic around the arena throughout the tournament.