Crime
District Judge Kevin Mullins killed in shooting, suspect Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines arrested
A fatal shooting occurred at the Letcher County Courthouse. One person was killed in the incident.
Letcher County Sheriff Mickey Stines has been arrested in connection with the shooting. He is accused of shooting District Judge Kevin Mullins in his office.
The shooting prompted an active shooter situation, leading authorities to advise residents in the Whitesburg area to shelter in place and go under lockdown.
Individuals in the downtown area were urged to lock their doors and remain safe. Both the Mountain Eagle and Appalshop confirmed reports of the shooting.
Nearby Letcher County Schools were placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure. While students were assured that they were not in danger, the lockdown remained in place until authorities deemed it safe to release them.
One person has been arrested in connection with the shooting. However, police have not yet authorized the release of students from the schools.
Initial reports indicated that the shooting took place in the District Courtroom. Court employees were visibly shaken and gathered on the sidewalk outside the courthouse.
Law enforcement officers responded to the incident promptly. A reporter is en route to Whitesburg to gather more information and provide updates as they become available.
Destiny Rachelle, the mother of Aubree Hitt, is pleading for help:
“I have no more words except, please—someone, anyone—help me find my baby.”
If you have any information, please call: 337-476-7267.
Aubree Hitt was taken by her biological father, Garrick Tyler Hitt, on Saturday, March 8, 2025, while she was on vacation in Mississippi with her grandmother.
Authorities are actively searching for her and urge the public to assist in locating her.
Last Known Details:
- Suspect: Garrick Tyler Hitt
- Accompanied by: Trinity Woods
- Location Last Seen: Lafayette, Louisiana, on March 8, 2025
- Vehicle Description: Louisiana Plate #X599812
- Concerns: Both individuals are convicted felons with severe addiction issues.
Case Numbers for Reference:
- CPSO Report #: 25-27397
- Sulphur Police Report #: 25/0308/0637
- DCFS Report Case #: 0001494886
Anyone with information about Aubree’s whereabouts or any sightings of Garrick Tyler Hitt and Trinity Woods is urged to contact local law enforcement immediately.
This is a time-sensitive case—your assistance can help bring Aubree home safely.