In a tragic event that unfolded at the Letcher County Courthouse in southeast Kentucky, District Judge Kevin Mullins, aged 54, lost his life after being shot multiple times in his chambers. The incident occurred just before 3 p.m. and was reported by 911 callers who heard shots fired within the building. Upon arriving at the scene, Kentucky State Police discovered the injured Judge Mullins, who succumbed to his wounds. The preliminary investigation revealed that Letcher County Sheriff Shawn "Mickey" Stines, 43, was responsible for the fatal shooting, which transpired during an alleged argument between the two officials.

Sheriff Stines, hailing from McRoberts, was promptly taken into custody without resistance at the courthouse and has been charged with one count of first-degree murder in connection with Judge Mullins' death. The motive behind the altercation leading to the shooting remains under investigation by the authorities. The sheriff was reelected in 2022 after first assuming office in 2018, while Judge Mullins had been appointed by Governor Steve Beshear in 2009. The tragic event has prompted Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman's office to collaborate with Commonwealth's Attorney Jackie Steele, who will serve as special prosecutors in the case.

Kentucky State Police have refrained from disclosing further details of the dispute that culminated in the fatal shooting of Judge Mullins by Sheriff Stines. The neighboring Leslie County Detention Center is where Stines is currently being held in custody. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident that has rocked the community of Letcher County. The Kentucky Court of Justice expressed their condolences to all those affected by the distressing event, extending thoughts and prayers to the grieving community during this trying period. Letcher County, located on the border of Virginia, is around a four-hour drive from Louisville.