Kentucky State Police Fatally Shoot Armed 69-Year-Old Man After He Reportedly Pointed Gun at Troopers During Search for Wanted Woman

LAWRENCE COUNTY, KENTUCKY — A 69-year-old man was fatally shot by Kentucky State Police after he allegedly threatened troopers and pointed a firearm at them during a late-night search for a woman wanted on multiple warrants in the Martha area, authorities confirmed Sunday.

Troopers had arrived at a residence on KY 1715 just before midnight Saturday after receiving information that a woman with active warrants—including an assault charge—was believed to be at the location.

Troopers Say Armed Neighbor Threatened to Shoot Out Cruiser Lights

While conducting their search, troopers were approached by a man from a neighboring, unrelated residence, later identified as Timothy Keeton, 69. According to a KSP news release, Keeton became confrontational and told troopers to turn off the lights on their cruisers or he would “shoot them out.”

Troopers say Keeton then went back into his residence and emerged moments later with a firearm in hand.

Man Allegedly Raised Gun Toward Troopers Before Being Shot

Authorities say Keeton allegedly raised the firearm in the direction of troopers, prompting them to fire. He was struck and killed at the scene. No troopers or nearby individuals were injured.

KSP noted that the woman they were originally searching for was not related to Keeton and had no connection to his residence.

Standard Investigation Underway in Officer-Involved Shooting

As is protocol for all officer-involved shootings, an independent investigation is now underway. Kentucky State Police will review body camera footage, trooper statements, and physical evidence to determine the full sequence of events leading up to the fatal confrontation.

Further details, including the number of shots fired and how many troopers were involved, have not yet been released.

ChicagoMusicGuide.com will continue to follow updates as Kentucky State Police release additional findings from their investigation into the fatal shooting in Lawrence County.