Kentucky Sheriff Allegedly Kills Judge in Courthouse Confrontation

A tragic incident unfolded in a rural Kentucky courthouse on Thursday, where Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines, 43, allegedly shot and killed District Judge Kevin Mullins, 54.

The confrontation reportedly took place in the judge’s chambers following an argument between the two men.

According to the Associated Press (AP), the preliminary investigation indicates that Stines fired multiple gunshots at Mullins inside the courthouse.

Following the incident, Stines surrendered to authorities. He has since been charged with first-degree murder.

Kentucky State Police are currently investigating the motives and details behind the confrontation.

During a press briefing, police confirmed that no one else was in the chambers at the time of the shooting, although there were people present in the building.

Democratic Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear addressed the tragic event on social media.

“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,” Beshear wrote on Facebook.

The Kentucky Court of Justice also issued a statement regarding the incident.

“The Kentucky Court of Justice is aware of a tragic incident that occurred today in Letcher County. We are currently in contact with law enforcement agencies, including Kentucky State Police, and are offering our full support during this difficult time,” the statement reads.

“At this moment, we are not able to share further details, but we will provide updates as more information becomes available.”

Kentucky State Police did not immediately respond to requests for further comment.

The community remains in shock as authorities continue to piece together the events that led to this devastating occurrence.

Watch a local news report about the incident below:

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