A judge in the US state of Kentucky was killed in a shooting on Thursday, prompting Governor Andy Beshear to condemn the statement that there is “far too much violence in the world.”
“Sadly, I have been informed that a district judge in Letcher County was shot and killed in his office this afternoon. There is far too much violence in this world and I pray there is a path to a better future,” Beshear wrote in a social media post.
A spokesperson for Kentucky State Police Post 13 confirmed that a suspect was arrested, but did not confirm the person’s identity. Police are reportedly on the scene and the investigation is ongoing.
Kentucky Court Justice officials confirmed the incident in a statement posted on social media, but added that no further details could be released.
“The Kentucky Court of Justice is aware of a tragic incident that occurred today in Letcher County. We are currently in contact with law enforcement, including the Kentucky State Police, and offer our full support during this difficult time. While the investigation is ongoing, we are committed to assisting in any way we can,” the statement said.
“Our deepest condolences go out to all those affected by this tragic event and our thoughts and prayers are with the community during this difficult time.”
In response to the incident, Letcher County Central High School in Whitesburg was placed on lockdown and students have since been sent home, school officials said on social media.
“Following a call from Kentucky State Police, we have been placed under a mandatory curfew due to a shooting downtown. Your children are safe. The shooter has been arrested,” the school said in a social media post.
Where is Whitesburg, Kentucky?
Whitesburg is a city in Letcher County and the county seat in southeastern Kentucky. According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the county has a population of 21,548.
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