A Kentucky sheriff has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of District Judge Kevin Mullins inside a courthouse in Whitesburg, Kentucky. The incident occurred following an argument inside the judge's chambers, resulting in Mullins being found with multiple gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene.
The Letcher County Sheriff, Shawn M. Stines, has been charged with first-degree murder in relation to the shooting. Stines turned himself in after the incident and is currently cooperating with authorities.
While the shooting took place in the Letcher County courthouse, no other injuries were reported, and no one else was present inside the judge's chambers at the time of the altercation.
Kentucky State Police are conducting a thorough investigation into the tragic event, with all witnesses being interviewed and surveillance footage from inside the building being reviewed.
Following the arrest of Sheriff Stines, it remains unclear who will assume the role of sheriff in Letcher County. The community has been deeply affected by the violence, with State Trooper Matt Gayheart expressing the shock felt by residents.
Gov. Andy Beshear shared his sentiments on the incident, emphasizing the need for a better tomorrow amidst the prevalence of violence in society.
The Kentucky Court of Justice has acknowledged the tragedy and is providing full support to law enforcement agencies during this difficult time.