Kentucky state trooper involved in shooting of gunman who refused to let wife, child leave residence

Published 9:08 am Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Kentucky State Police are investigating a shooting that involved a state trooper late Saturday night in Williamsburg.

The shooting occurred on Jan. 15 at approximately 11:23 p.m. in Whitley County, according to a news release from KSP.

A preliminary investigation indicates that on Jan. 15 Whitley County Dispatch requested assistance from KSP in reference to a domestic dispute at a residence located on HWY 25W. It was reported that a subject had fired shots inside the residence and was refusing to allow his wife and children to leave the residence.

Officers with the Williamsburg Police Department and Whitley County Sheriff’s Office attempted negotiation techniques with the subject. Despite loud verbal commands from the trooper and other officers, the subject brandished a firearm and pointed it in the direction of the trooper and officers.

The trooper discharged their agency-issued firearm, striking the subject and ending the incident.

Law enforcement rendered medical aid to the subject until EMS arrived. The subject was transported by Whitley County EMS to a helicopter-landing zone and then flown to the University of Kentucky Albert B. Chandler Hospital, where the subject remains in critical condition.

In accordance with KSP policies and procedures, the trooper has been placed on administrative leave.

The KSP Critical Incident Response Team investigation into the incident remains ongoing.