A district judge in Kentucky was shot and killed by the county sheriff on Thursday afternoon in what police describe as a tragic courthouse argument turned deadly. Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines, 43, is now facing first-degree murder charges after the fatal shooting of Judge Kevin Mullins, 54, in Whitesburg.
Trooper Matt Gayheart of the Kentucky State Police confirmed that officers were called to the courthouse following reports of gunfire. When they arrived, they found Mullins with multiple gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead after unsuccessful lifesaving efforts.
Authorities say that Sheriff Stines turned himself in after the shooting and was taken into custody without resistance. He has since been cooperating with investigators, Gayheart said. The incident, described as isolated, has left the small community in shock. “We’re all shook,” Gayheart added.
Gov. Andy Beshear (D) took to social media to address the tragedy, expressing concern over the rising violence in the state and the nation. Attorney General Russell Coleman also pledged a thorough investigation, working alongside local prosecutors.
Judge Mullins had been serving the 47th Judicial District since 2010 and had recently taken on a new role in a mental health commission. Sheriff Stines was elected to office in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. Police are continuing to gather details about the argument that led to the fatal shooting.
