Kentucky Man Charged With Murder After Woman Found Shot to Death in Floyd County
PIKEVILLE, KY — A 35-year-old Kentucky man has been arrested and charged with murder after state police discovered the body of a woman fatally shot inside a home in Floyd County on Thursday, November 21.
Kentucky State Police confirmed that Joshua Gayheart, of Beaver, was taken into custody following the death of 35-year-old Sarah Slone, who was found unresponsive with a gunshot wound and pronounced dead at the scene.
Troopers Arrived After 911 Call Reported an Unresponsive Woman
According to investigators, the case began when Prestonsburg 911 requested KSP assistance following a report of an unresponsive woman in the Beaver community. Troopers and detectives from KSP Post 9 arrived at a residence on the 14000 block of Kentucky Route 979, where they discovered Slone’s body.
The Floyd County Coroner pronounced Slone deceased shortly after officers arrived, noting that the initial investigation clearly indicated a fatal gunshot wound.
Autopsy Ordered as Investigation Continues
State authorities have sent Slone’s body to the Kentucky State Medical Examiner’s Office for a full autopsy to determine the precise cause of death and gather additional forensic evidence.
KSP says the investigation is ongoing, and no further details — including motive, potential witnesses, or weapon recovery — have been released. Gayheart remains in custody while detectives continue interviewing individuals connected to the case.
Community Still Searching for Answers
The quiet Beaver community continues to grapple with the sudden tragedy. Neighbors reported seeing law enforcement activity throughout the morning but said they were unaware of any previous disturbances at the home.
KSP investigators say additional updates will be released as evidence is processed and interviews continue.
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