Kentucky State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred in Jackson County following a vehicle pursuit which went through three counties Thursday morning.
According to the initial investigation, a KSP Post 7 Trooper attempted to stop a vehicle that was allegedly driving recklessly at a high rate of speed on Richmond Road (KY-52) in Estill County just after 2:00 pm.
The suspect, later identified to be David N. Willoughby of Jeffersonville, then turned off of KY-52 and continued to drive erratically, before stopping on Knob Lick Road in Estill County. Reportedly, Willoughby intentionally stuck a law enforcement vehicle with his truck during the pursuit.
A vehicle matching the description from the initial pursuit was later identified on Red Lick Road in Madison County by a second KSP Trooper, and a second pursuit was initiated. The pursuit continued through Madison County, and into Jackson County on US-421.
Law enforcement lost sight of Willoughby’s truck on Rice School Road after it drove into a wooded area. A perimeter was established in the area, and a search for the vehicle was initiated.
Further reading of the report indicates that the suspect then attempted to flee along Rice School Road again, striking multiple law enforcement units. Because of the subject’s actions, units discharged their service weapons.
Willoughby sustained fatal injuries as a result of the shooting, and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Jackson County Coroner. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office later identified Willoughby as a suspect in a murder case that they are working. Information regarding the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office investigation should be directed to their department.
Further details surround the case will be provided as the investigation continues.
