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Suspect hospitalized after allegedly drawing a gun on a trooper and deputy in Whitesburg

By Michael R. Grigsby, Somerset Advocate Published: July 28, 2025, 7:30 AM EDT | Updated: 17 hours ago

Somerset, Kentucky---Kentucky State Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Saturday evening after law enforcement responded to reports of a domestic disturbance involving gunfire in Laurel County.

The incident began around 7:30 p.m. on July 26 when a Kentucky State Police trooper from Post 13 in Hazard and a Laurel County Sheriff's Office deputy were dispatched to a residence near KY-160. According to a preliminary investigation, authorities were responding to reports of gunfire stemming from a domestic altercation in the area.

The reporting party informed officers that Julian Smith, 25, of Jeremiah, was allegedly responsible for the disturbance, state police said in a news release. Upon seeing law enforcement arrive, Smith allegedly fled into nearby woods and drew a pistol, according to authorities. Both the KSP trooper and LCSO deputy discharged their service weapons, striking Smith, police reported. Following the shooting, both officers provided medical assistance to Smith until emergency medical personnel arrived on the scene. Smith was subsequently transported to Johnson City Medical Center, where he remains in stable condition. Neither officer sustained injuries during the incident. The Kentucky State Police continue to investigate the officer-involved shooting. Additional details will be released as the investigation progresses and information becomes available.