Whitesburg, KY — A profound disturbance shook the small community of Letcher County when District Judge Kevin Mullins, aged 54, was fatally shot in his courthouse chambers. Mullins, who was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple gunshot wounds, met his tragic demise on Thursday, according to Kentucky State Police.
In connection with the incident, Letcher County Sheriff Shawn M. Stines was arrested on charges of first-degree murder following a preliminary investigation. Authorities allege that an argument between Stines and Mullins escalated, leading to the shooting.
Trooper Matt Gayheart shared details at a news conference, revealing that while there were other individuals in the courthouse at the time, none were present in the chambers during the altercation. No additional injuries were reported.
Stines, who surrendered himself at the scene shortly after the incident, is currently cooperating with the law enforcement officials investigating the case. His legal representation status remains unconfirmed.
The incident prompted an immediate response from Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, who expressed his concerns via social media. “There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow,” Beshear stated, echoing the sentiments of a troubled community.
The motive behind the shooting is still under investigation. Kentucky State Police have noted that there are security cameras throughout the building and that all potential witnesses will be interviewed to piece together the sequence of events.
Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced involvement in the case, collaborating with Jackie Steele, the commonwealth’s attorney for the 27th Judicial Circuit, who will serve as a special prosecutor. “We will fully investigate and pursue justice,” Coleman assured.
As a consequence of the tragic events, local judiciary operations have been halted. The Kentucky Courts announced that circuit and district courts, as well as the office of the circuit court clerk, will remain closed until further assessments deem it safe to resume services.
The Kentucky Court of Justice has publicly recognized the gravity of the situation, asserting their cooperation with law enforcement agencies to support the ongoing investigation. Kentucky Supreme Court Chief Justice Laurance B. VanMeter expressed his shock and concern, stating, “My prayers are with his family and the Letcher County community as they try to process and mourn this tragic loss.”
The local community, deeply interconnected and familial, is reeling from the shock. Matt Butler, the commonwealth’s attorney for Letcher County, revealed the closeness of the community ties, noting the familial relationships intertwined within this tragedy. Butler, whose wife is the sister of Mullins’ wife, announced his recusal from the case, citing the close personal connections. He emphasized the emotional toll on both families, sharing that his children “have cried and cried and begged to see their uncle.”
This tragic event underscores the often-overlooked pressures and dangers faced by those serving in public offices in smaller communities, where personal relationships run deep, presenting unique challenges in the pursuit of justice and peace.