Letcher County, KY — A courthouse shooting in Letcher County, Kentucky, has left a district judge dead, allegedly at the hands of the county sheriff. The incident took place Thursday inside the Letcher County Courthouse, sending shock through the small community.
Authorities report that District Judge Kevin Mullins was shot and killed by Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines, following what witnesses described as a heated altercation between the two men. The cause of the argument remains under investigation, but law enforcement sources suggest tensions between the judge and sheriff had been escalating for some time.
The courthouse was immediately evacuated, and Sheriff Stines was taken into custody by state police. Officials are conducting a full investigation into the shooting, and the Kentucky State Police are expected to file formal charges soon.
Letcher County, KY — September 19, 2024
A shocking courthouse shooting in Letcher County, Kentucky, has left a district judge dead, allegedly at the hands of the county sheriff. The incident took place Thursday inside the Letcher County Courthouse, sending waves of disbelief through the small community.
Authorities report that District Judge Kevin Mullins was shot and killed by Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines, following what witnesses described as a heated altercation between the two men. The cause of the argument remains under investigation, but law enforcement sources suggest tensions between the judge and sheriff had been escalating for some time.
The courthouse was immediately evacuated, and Sheriff Stines was taken into custody by state police. Officials are conducting a full investigation into the shooting, and the Kentucky State Police are expected to file formal charges soon.
“This is a tragedy that has shaken the entire community,” said Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron, calling the incident “deeply troubling.”
Residents of Letcher County expressed shock and sadness over the news, with many describing both Mullins and Stines as well-known figures in the area. Local officials have called for unity and calm as investigations continue.
Judge Mullins, who had served in the Letcher County court for several years, was known for his firm rulings and dedication to justice. Sheriff Stines, a longtime law enforcement officer, had been in his role for nearly a decade.
More details are expected to emerge as investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the deadly shooting.
“Sadly, I have been informed that a district judge in Letcher County was shot and killed in his chambers this afternoon. There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow,” Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear shared on X.
Judge Mullins, who had served in the Letcher County court for several years, was known for his firm rulings and dedication to justice. Sheriff Stines, a longtime law enforcement officer, had been in his role for nearly a decade.
More details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.
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