Mother says she shot, killed adult son in self-defense at Central Kentucky home

A mother shot and killed her adult son Wednesday night at a home near Nicholasville, according to the Jessamine County Sheriff’s Office.

The domestic incident happened at a home on Mackey Pike, not far from Union Mill Road (Ky. 169), the sheriff’s office said.

Lt. Anthony Purcell said the mother called 911 after she shot her son, but told deputies the act was self-defense.

James Davis, 30, and his mother were arguing throughout the day before the shooting, Purcell said.

Deputies found Davis with a gunshot wound to the head, the sheriff’s office said. He was taken to University of Kentucky Chandler Hospital, where he died about 11 p.m. Wednesday.

The mother was questioned and released by the sheriff’s department, Purcell added. Detectives will continue to investigate the shooting, but no charges have been filed, according to the sheriff’s office.

According to an obituary, Davis attended church in Breathitt County, enjoyed being outdoors and caring for his cattle and horses. Funeral services will be held at Betts & West Funeral Home Tuesday at 1 p.m.

This story was originally published January 2, 2020 at 10:49 AM.