Kentucky sheriff killed judge in his chambers following an argument.

Kentucky Sheriff Allegedly Shoots and Kills Judge After Heated Argument: Investigation Underway

Authorities in Kentucky are working to uncover the events that led to a tragic shooting involving a sheriff and a district judge. According to Kentucky State Police, Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines, 43, is accused of fatally shooting District Judge Kevin Mullins, 54, after a dispute in the judge’s chambers.

On Thursday, around 3 p.m., Judge Mullins was found with multiple gunshot wounds at the Letcher County courthouse in Whitesburg, Kentucky. He was pronounced dead at the scene, confirmed Kentucky State Police Trooper Matt Gayheart during a press briefing that evening. Preliminary investigations revealed that the altercation between Stines and Mullins escalated, leading to the fatal shooting. Stines, who has been the county sheriff for about eight years, now faces a first-degree murder charge.

At this time, it remains unclear if Stines has retained legal representation. After the shooting, Stines turned himself in to authorities and was arrested without any resistance. He is reportedly cooperating with the investigation. However, the local community is left questioning who will take over as county sheriff following this incident.

“This is a small, close-knit community, and everyone is deeply shaken,” Gayheart said of the shocking event.

Although other people were present in the courthouse during the shooting, no one else was in the judge’s chambers, and no additional injuries were reported. Authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat, emphasizing that this was an isolated incident.

Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the argument and shooting. “We are looking for answers regarding what happened just before the shooting and what might have triggered it,” Gayheart added.

This tragic killing comes at a time when southeastern Kentucky has already been grappling with other acts of violence. Earlier this month, a shooting on an interstate in Laurel County left five people injured. Just days ago, a deputy in Russell County was killed while on duty.

In response to these recent violent events, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear posted on social media, “There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray for a better future.”

As the investigation continues, we await further details about both the altercation and the lives of those involved.