Russell County deputy killed in officer-involved shooting, investigation ongoing
RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A tragic officer-involved shooting in Russell County on Monday evening has claimed the life of Deputy Josh Phipps, a three-year veteran of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office. The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Critical Incident Response Team is leading the investigation into the incident, which occurred on Bluebird Drive in Russell Springs at approximately 5:27 p.m. CDT on Monday.
According to a release from KSP, officers from KSP Post 15 and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office were conducting an investigation when the shooting took place. Deputy Phipps sustained life-threatening injuries during the encounter and was transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. A male subject involved in the incident was also transported to the hospital and has since been declared deceased.
In the release, KSP announced the tragic death of Deputy Phipps, and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his condolences on social media. “Tragic news for our commonwealth as a Russell County deputy was killed in the line of duty last night,” Beshear said. “Britainy and I ask all of Kentucky to join us in praying for his family, fellow law enforcement officers, and the entire Russell County community.”
KSP is responsible for investigating officer-involved shootings across the state when requested by law enforcement agencies. As part of standard operating procedures, KSP will not release further details until all relevant witnesses have been interviewed, and the investigation is complete.
The Russell County School District has canceled classes for Tuesday in light of the incident. In a social media post, Superintendent Michael Ford said that counselors would be available at every school in the district during regular school hours for any families or students needing support.
Russell Springs Mayor Eddie Thomas also shared a statement on social media, expressing the community’s grief: “Our community has suffered a great loss tonight. I ask that you please keep our town, our county, and all of our first responders in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Please also lift up the men and women of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, as well as the family and friends of the fallen officer. This tragedy has shaken us all, but together, we will find strength and comfort. Let us stand united as a community and support one another in the days ahead.”
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting is ongoing, and no further details have been released at this time.
