PAINTSVILLE- A Salyersville man was reportedly shot by Paintsville Police Department after running from law enforcement.
On Sunday, April 26, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Critical Incident Response Team was requested by KSP Post 9 to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred around 2 a.m. that same day in Johnson County.
According to KSP’s initial investigation, an officer from Paintsville Police Department (PPD) was conducting a foot patrol on Main Street when he observed a parked motorcycle matching the description of one reported stolen earlier.
According to KSP’s press release, a short time later the officer encountered Shawn Gayheart, 37, of Salyersville, who allegedly fled on foot for a short distance before police caught up with him, at which time a physical altercation ensued. A second PPD officer arrived on scene to assist and both officers reportedly deployed their tasers to attempt to gain control over Gayheart, but were unsuccessful.
The officers then discharged their agency-issued firearms, striking Gayheart, according to the police report. Police immediately rendered medical aid until EMS arrived, and Gayheart was transported to Pikeville Medical Center. Officers found a knife and firearm at the scene and the investigation remains ongoing, according to KSP’s press release.
On April 27, Gayheart was taken into custody and transported to the Pike County Detention Center, facing the following charges: parole violation, convicted felon in possession of a handgun, menacing, second-degree fleeing or evading police (on foot), resisting arrest, third-degree assault of a police/probation officer, and first-degree persistent felony offender.
Editor’s Note: The indictment or charge of a person by a grand jury or otherwise is an accusation only and that person is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
