Kentucky sheriff arrested for shooting judge dead

Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines was arrested after allegedly shooting and killing District Judge Kevin Mullins, inside a US courthouse.

The Kentucky State Police reported that Stines was taken into custody and has now been charged.

Details surrounding the shooting remain unclear, as police have not yet disclosed a motive. Stines has been charged with first-degree murder.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow over the violence, stating, "There is far too much violence in this world, and I pray there is a path to a better tomorrow."

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced that his office will collaborate with special prosecutors to ensure a thorough investigation, pledging, "We will fully investigate and pursue justice."

The Kentucky Court of Justice acknowledged the tragic event, offering its full support to state police in their investigation.

Witnesses reported that Stines entered Judge Mullins' outer office, requesting a private conversation. Following the closed-door meeting, gunshots were heard, and Stines emerged with his hands raised, surrendering to law enforcement.

The courthouse, located in Whitesburg, about 220 miles southeast of Louisville near the Virginia border, is now the center of a major investigation as the community grapples with this unprecedented violence.