Kentucky Man Accused of Fatally Shooting Woman Found Dead From Self-Inflicted Gunshot, Police Say
MEADE COUNTY, KENTUCKY — Authorities say a man accused of killing a 55-year-old woman in Meade County on Monday was later found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, ending a daylong search that began after the shooting in the Ekron community.
According to the Kentucky State Police, 45-year-old Scott Hornback shot and killed Mary Crase, 55, inside a home on Simpson Lane before fleeing the scene.
Deadly Shooting in Meade County Home
Investigators said the Meade County Sheriff’s Office contacted state police around 12:55 p.m. on November 3, 2025, after reports of a shooting at a private residence. When officers arrived, they discovered Crase dead from gunshot wounds, and Hornback was nowhere to be found.
Authorities immediately launched a multi-agency search for the suspect, describing him as armed and dangerous. The investigation led police to Burgundy Lane, where Hornback’s vehicle was discovered later that evening.
At approximately 9:30 p.m., troopers found Hornback dead inside the vehicle from what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Police have not released any indication of a motive but confirmed the incident was being treated as a murder-suicide.
Suspect’s Criminal History and Past Domestic Violence
State records show Hornback had a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for sexual abuse and fleeing from police. His background also revealed a pattern of domestic violence allegations spanning multiple years.
Court documents indicate that Hornback had been accused of domestic violence in four separate civil cases across Kentucky. Of those cases, only one resulted in an official restraining order, which was issued for three years in 2010.
Law enforcement officials say his record will be fully reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation, but early reports suggest a long-standing history of violent behavior toward family members and intimate partners.
Investigation Ongoing by Kentucky State Police
The Kentucky State Police Post in Elizabethtown is leading the investigation, assisted by the Meade County Sheriff’s Office. Officials said autopsies will be performed to confirm the causes of death and determine the full timeline of events.
The Meade County community remains in shock following the deaths of both individuals, with neighbors describing the scene as “heartbreaking” and “tragic.” Authorities have not disclosed any additional details about the relationship between Hornback and Crase.
As the investigation continues, residents are encouraged to contact the Kentucky State Police with any relevant information regarding the case. For continued updates on community safety and breaking news across the region, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.