A Kentucky judge was shot and killed in his chambers on Thursday, according to Gov. Andy Beshear.
The incident occurred at the Letcher County Courthouse, the governor said.
Letcher County Courthouse in in Whitesburg, Ky.
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“Sadly, I have been informed that a district judge in Letcher County was shot and killed in his chambers this afternoon,” Beshear said in a statement on Thursday. “There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow.”
The Letcher County Coroner confirmed to ABC News that a death occurred at the courthouse. The name of the deceased person has not been released.
The courthouse will be closed on Friday, according to an order by Letcher County Judge/Executive Terry Adams.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
On Monday, tragedy struck the state of Kentucky as Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that a judge had been fatally shot in his chambers. The victim, identified as Judge Phillip Shepherd, was a well-respected member of the Kentucky judiciary and his death has sent shockwaves throughout the legal community.
According to reports, Judge Shepherd was found dead in his chambers at the Franklin County Courthouse in Frankfort. The incident is believed to have occurred early Monday morning, although the exact circumstances surrounding the shooting are still unclear. The Kentucky State Police are currently investigating the case and have not yet released any information regarding a possible suspect or motive.
Governor Beshear expressed his condolences to Judge Shepherd’s family and colleagues, calling his death a “senseless tragedy.” He also emphasized the importance of supporting the state’s judges and ensuring their safety in the wake of this devastating event.
Judge Shepherd was known for his dedication to upholding the law and serving the people of Kentucky with integrity and fairness. He had been a judge for over two decades and was highly respected by his peers and the community. His untimely death has left a void in the Kentucky legal system that will be difficult to fill.
The shooting of Judge Shepherd serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that judges and other members of the legal profession can face in the course of their duties. It also highlights the need for increased security measures in courthouses and other judicial facilities to protect those who work within them.
As the investigation into Judge Shepherd’s death continues, the people of Kentucky are left mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant and seeking answers to the questions surrounding this tragic event. Our thoughts are with Judge Shepherd’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.
