Special deputy in KY sheriff’s dept. kills girlfriend in murder-suicide, cops say
A special deputy in a Kentucky sheriff’s department shot and killed his girlfriend before killing himself Monday, according to Kentucky State Police.
The shooting happened at a home on Sally Davis Road in Lee County. State police said Sheriff Joe Lucas was conducting a welfare check at the home and found Bearl Ashcraft Jr., 48, and his girlfriend, Hayley Davidson, 28, both of Beattyville, dead from gunshot wounds.
A preliminary investigation determined Ashcraft shot Davidson before shooting himself, state police said. Both were taken to the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort for autopsies.
Trooper Scottie Pennington confirmed Ashcraft was a special deputy for the Lee County Sheriff’s Department.
A special deputy does not receive law enforcement training but is appointed by a sheriff, sworn in and assists with general law enforcement and maintenance of public order, according to Kentucky law.
The position is not typically paid.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Department declined to comment on Ashcraft, asking that all questions about the shooting be directed to state police.
Davidson was a social worker for the state of Kentucky, Pennington said. Gov. Andy Beshear said he is providing crisis support to Davidson’s team members.
“I was so sad to learn the news of Hayley Davidson, a social worker for the state, whose life was taken too soon by a senseless act in Lee County,” Beshear said on social media. “Please join Britainy and me, and all of Team Kentucky, in praying for her family and loved ones during this unimaginable time.”
The shooting is being investigated by state police. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact Kentucky State Police Post 7 at 859-623-4710.
This story was originally published June 17, 2025 at 12:57 PM.
