In a shocking turn of events, Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines has been implicated in the fatal shooting of District Judge Kevin Mullins.
The incident occurred within the judge's chambers at the Letcher County Courthouse, Kentucky, as confirmed by the state police.
As reported by ABC News, the tragic incident unfolded on Thursday when a 911 caller reported gunfire within the courthouse shortly before 3 p.m. ET. Upon arrival, law enforcement and emergency personnel discovered Judge Mullins, aged 54, with multiple gunshot wounds. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that the judge had been shot in his chambers. Despite immediate lifesaving efforts, Mullins succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The 43-year-old Sheriff Stines was arrested without resistance and has been charged with first-degree murder. The alleged shooting followed an argument inside the courthouse, according to a statement from the Kentucky State Police. However, it remains undetermined whether Stines used his duty weapon during the incident. Following his arrest, Stines was transported to a detention center. Officials have indicated that he is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. It is yet to be confirmed whether Stines has legal representation.
Kentucky State Police Trooper Matt Gayheart, in conversation with ABC affiliate WJHL in Johnson City, Tennessee, confirmed that there were no additional injuries reported in the incident. He also reassured the public, stating, "It is an isolated incident, and there is no threat to the public right now." The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation.
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has pledged his office's collaboration with the Commonwealth's Attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit, Jackie Steele, to serve as special prosecutors in the case. "We will fully investigate and pursue justice," Coleman affirmed in a statement.
The Kentucky Court of Justice has expressed its commitment to providing assistance during the ongoing investigation. "Our deepest sympathies go out to all those impacted by this tragic event, and our thoughts and prayers are with the community during this challenging time," the court said in a statement.
In response to the incident, the courthouse will remain closed on Friday, as ordered by Letcher County Judge/Executive Terry Adams. Laurance B. VanMeter, chief justice of the Kentucky Supreme Court, expressed his shock at the violent act, stating that the "court system is shaken by this news."
Judge Mullins had been serving as the district court judge for Kentucky's 47th District Court, which presides over Letcher County, since his appointment in 2009 by then-Governor Steve Beshear. A graduate of the University of Kentucky and the University of Louisville law school, Mullins' untimely death leaves a significant void in the judicial community. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of a respected public servant.
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