WHITESBURG, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The Letcher County Courthouse remained closed on Friday as Kentucky State Police and other investigators continued their examination of the scene where District Judge Kevin Mullins was fatally shot on Thursday. Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines has been arrested and charged with murder in the first degree, following the incident, which authorities say occurred…
WHITESBURG, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – The Letcher County Courthouse remained closed on Friday as Kentucky State Police and other investigators continued their examination of the scene where District Judge Kevin Mullins was fatally shot on Thursday.
Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines has been arrested and charged with murder in the first degree, following the incident, which authorities say occurred just before 3 p.m. inside Mullins’ chambers at the courthouse.
“Sherrif Mickey Shawn Stines fired at District Judge Kevin Mullins following an argument inside the courthouse,” stated Trooper Matt Gayheart of the Kentucky State Police. Mullins was found with multiple gunshot wounds and pronounced dead at the scene despite attempts at life-saving measures.
Details about what specifically triggered the argument are still under investigation. “Those details I do not have at this time; we know that it was an argument between the two that led up. But what exactly transpired prior to the shots being fired are still things that we’re trying to get answers to,” Gayheart added.
The incident has drawn comments from state leaders. Governor Andy Beshear expressed his concern on X, saying, “There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow.” Attorney General Russell Coleman also weighed in, noting on X that his office will collaborate with Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit, Jackie Steele, as special prosecutors in this case.
As the community reels from this tragedy, Trooper Gayheart reflected, “We could use everybody’s prayers; send prayers to the family that they get through this tough time.”