(Eddyville, KY) - On Monday, September 14 at approximately 7:00 A.M CST, KSP Troopers located Johnson-Shanks in a wooded area in close proximity to Interstate 24.
Upon making contact with Johnson-Shanks, Troopers of the Special Response Team (SRT) observed him with a firearm and instructed him to relinquish it. Johnson-Shanks refused verbal commands and aimed the weapon at the Troopers.
An SRT Trooper discharged his agency issued weapon striking Johnson-Shanks. He was transported via ambulance to the Caldwell Medical Center in Princeton, KY for treatment where he later succumbed to his injuries at 08:23 A.M. CST.
The investigation is continuing by the KSP. Multiple agencies are assisting with the investigation.
Pctured is KSP Trooper Joseph Cameron Ponder and his accused killer Joseph Thomas Johnson-Shanks.
Original News Release Below:
KSP Trooper Killed In Shooting, KSP Actively Seeking Suspect
(Eddyville, KY) - On Monday, September 14 at approximately 7:00 A.M CST, KSP Troopers located Johnson-Shanks in a wooded area in close proximity to Interstate 24. Upon making contact with Johnson-Shanks, Troopers of the Special Response Team (SRT) observed him with a firearm and instructed him to relinquish it. Johnson-Shanks refused verbal commands and aimed the weapon at the Troopers. An SRT Trooper discharged his agency issued weapon striking Johnson-Shanks. He was transported via ambulance to the Caldwell Medical Center in Princeton, KY for treatment where he later succumbed to his injuries at 08:23 A.M. CST.
The suspect has been identified as Joseph Thomas Johnson-Shanks, 25, of Missouri. He is described as a black male approximately 5'5", 140 pounds, brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing dark clothing. If anyone makes contact with the suspect, dial 911. He should be considered armed and dangerous.
Trooper Ponder, 31, was a native of Rineyville, KY. Upon graduation from the KSP Training Academy in January 2015, he was stationed at Post 1, Mayfield and assigned to Trigg County.
The investigation is continuing by the KSP. Multiple agencies are assisting with the investigation.
