On September 20, 2024, a tragic incident took place at the Letcher County Courthouse in Kentucky. District Judge Kevin Mullins was shot and killed in his chambers by Letcher County Sheriff Shawn Stines. The sheriff, aged 43, has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with the shooting.
The shooting occurred following an argument between Sheriff Stines and Judge Mullins inside the court, although the exact motive has not been disclosed by the police. The incident took place around 2:00 PM in Whitesburg, Kentucky, a town located approximately 150 miles southeast of Lexington.
Eyewitnesses reported that Sheriff Stines entered the judge’s outer office and requested a private conversation with Judge Mullins. Moments later, gunshots were heard coming from the judge’s chambers. Sheriff Stines then emerged with his hands raised and surrendered to the police. He was promptly arrested at the scene without resistance and handcuffed in the courthouse foyer.
Kentucky State Police confirmed that Judge Mullins succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Fortunately, no one else was harmed during the shooting, although approximately 50 courthouse employees were present at the time of the incident. As a precautionary measure, a nearby school was briefly put on lockdown.
In response to the tragedy, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman assured the public that his office would conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served in this case. The community has been left in shock by the violence that unfolded in their midst. Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter expressed his disbelief at the incident, while Governor Andy Beshear lamented the broader issue of violence in society, expressing hope for a better future.
As the investigation into this tragic event continues, the community grapples with the loss of a respected judge and the shocking actions of a law enforcement officer. The repercussions of this incident are sure to be felt far and wide, highlighting the importance of transparency, accountability, and justice in upholding the rule of law.