A Kentucky judge was shot and killed Thursday morning in his court chambers, authorities said. The shooting happened at the Letcher County Courthouse in Whitesburg, Kentucky, at around 10:45 a.m. Eastern time.
A Kentucky judge was shot and killed Thursday morning in his court chambers, authorities said.
The shooting happened at the Letcher County Courthouse in Whitesburg, Kentucky, at around 10:45 a.m. Eastern time.
Kentucky Judge Shot and Killed in Court Chambers
One person was reportedly in custody, but authorities have not disclosed any details about the shooting or have identified the judge killed or the suspect.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said he was informed that a judge in Letcher County was killed.
Kentucky Judge Shot and Killed in Court Chambers
"There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow," he wrote on X.
Allison Ball, the state auditor of public accounts, identified the victim as District Judge Kevin Mullins.
The Kentucky Court of Justice system said it was aware of the killing and is cooperating with law enforcement.
"At this moment, we are not able to share further details, but we will provide updates as more information becomes available," it said on social media. "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."
Letcher County Public Schools said it was ordered to go into mandatory lockdowns because of "an active shooting" in the downtown area.
"Your children are safe," the district wrote online. "The shooter has been apprehended, but KSP has not released us to come out of lockdown. Your children were never in a concerning situation. Please give us time to work with KSP to figure out our next steps."
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman said his office will collaborate with Jackie Steele, the commonwealth's attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit, as special prosecutors in the case.
"We will fully investigate and pursue justice," he posted on social media.
The Kentucky State Police is investigating the shooting.
