Two killed near Kentucky courthouse in domestic shooting incident
Suspect critically injured after shooting three near Kentucky courthouse
Three family members were shot, with two fatalities, near a Kentucky courthouse on Monday before attending a hearing on an emergency protective order, as per officials. The suspect, dating one of the victims, fled and later shot himself during a standoff with police, according to the Elizabethtown Police Department.
The incident occurred in a parking lot across from the Hardin County Justice Centre shortly before 9 a.m. ET. Elizabethtown Police Chief Jeremy Thompson stated that three individuals were ambushed. The suspect, identified as 46-year-old Christopher Elder, escaped in a vehicle.
Elizabethtown police have confirmed a shooting near the Hardin County Justice Center. Those in the area should follow guidance from law enforcement. Please join Britainy and me in praying for everyone affected by this senseless act of violence. ^AB
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) August 19, 2024
Erica Riley, aged 37 from Elizabethtown, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her mother, 71-year-old Janet Rylee from Hardinsburg, was also shot and later succumbed to her injuries at a hospital. A third victim, a male relative, was shot and remains stable. His identity has not been disclosed.
Two children of one of the victims were present but unharmed. After a vehicle chase in western Kentucky, Elder shot himself during a standoff and is now in critical condition. The shooting was a domestic incident, occurring before a scheduled emergency protective order hearing, according to Mayor Jeff Gregory of Elizabethtown.
“It’s just terrible, it’s a tragedy,” said Gregory, who has a background in law enforcement. “Domestic situations are unpredictable and often end tragically.” The investigation continues. “Please join my wife Britainy and me in praying for everyone affected by this senseless act of violence,” stated Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened near the courthouse in Kentucky?
Three family members were shot, two fatally, before a hearing on an emergency protective order.
Who was the suspect in the Kentucky courthouse shooting?
The suspect was Christopher Elder, 46, who was dating one of the victims.
Where did the Kentucky courthouse shooting occur?
This occurred in a parking lot across the street from the Hardin County Justice Center.
What happened to the suspect after the shooting?
The suspect fled the scene and later shot himself during a standoff with police; he remains in critical condition.
Were any children involved in the Kentucky courthouse shooting?
Two children were at the scene but were unharmed.
