Kentucky sheriff’s deputy killed in shooting. Suspect has died too, sheriff says.

A Russell County sheriff’s deputy was shot and killed while searching for a suspect Monday evening. Deputy Sheriff Joshua Phipps was helping Kentucky State Police and other law enforcement search for the suspect on foot, Sheriff Derek Polston said in a social media post early Tuesday. “Gunfire was exchanged after locating the suspect, and Deputy Phipps was struck by gunfire,” Polston said in the post on his personal Facebook page.

He said Phipps later died at Russell County Hospital in Russell Springs. Polston said the suspect also died in the shooting. “Deputy Josh Phipps died a hero, doing what he liked, Protecting and Serving Russell County,” Polston wrote.



He asked for prayers for Phipps’ family and friends and the sheriff’s office and its staff. He said a number of other police agencies had contacted to offer help and support covering calls. Tragic news for our commonwealth as a Russell County deputy was killed in the line of duty last night.

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. ^AB — Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) I’m praying for Russell County as they grieve the loss of Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Phipps who was tragically killed in the line of duty. May God strengthen his family and this community as we mourn this great loss.

— Auditor Allison Ball (@KYAuditor).