New mayor calls for answers in unresolved Douglas Harless investigation

LONDON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Just days after taking office, London Mayor Tracie Handley is pressing state officials for answers in the unresolved investigation into the death of city maintenance worker Douglas Harless.

In a letter dated Monday, September 8, and sent to Kentucky State Police Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Mayor Handley called the lack of updates on the case “unacceptable” and said it has left the Harless family and the community without closure.

Harless, 63, was shot and killed just before midnight on December 23, 2024, when London police officers mistakenly executed a search warrant at the wrong address. Police say they announced themselves before entering through the front door, where they encountered Harless holding a gun. An officer fired several times, killing him.

Handley said the absence of information since that night has created frustration, pain, and distrust, while placing an unnecessary emotional burden on Harless’ loved ones.

“The Harless family itself has suffered,” Handley wrote. “This family has been forced to bury their patriarch without understanding why he died.”

The mayor formally requested that investigators:

• Confirm whether a specific timeline exists for the investigation

• Provide a preliminary findings report that can be shared without compromising the case

• Release non-sensitive documents where possible

Handley added that her duty as mayor is to demand accountability and ensure transparency for the people of London.

Her appointment as mayor came last Friday, after former Mayor Randall Weddle was impeached and removed from office by the city council.