QUINCY, Ky. (July 20, 2023) – On July 5, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Morehead-Post 8, was contacted by the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) for assistance with an officer-involved shooting that occurred on KY 8 in Lewis County.

At this time, KSP is releasing the preliminary findings as vital witnesses have been interviewed. The preliminary findings show South Shore Police Chief William Sowards located a vehicle that had been reported stolen. When he attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the vehicle fled into Lewis County. The vehicle operator attempted to strike a Lewis County Deputy Sheriff.

Deputy Jason Bryant fired rounds at the stolen vehicle. The operator wrecked a short time later. The vehicle’s operator and sole occupant, Alexis Hale, 31 years old from Columbus, Ohio, was not struck by the gunfire but was treated and released at the local hospital.

Alexis Hale was lodged in the Montgomery County Regional Detention Center and charged with Attempted Murder of a Police Officer, Wanton Endangerment (7 counts), and Receiving Stolen Property $10,000 or more.

No officers or other members of the public were injured.

KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local law enforcement agencies. KSP is committed to being transparent while ensuring the integrity of the investigation. To protect the integrity of an ongoing investigation, it is KSP standard operating procedure not to release specific details until vital witnesses have been interviewed and pertinent facts gathered. Timelines to complete investigations vary based on the complexity of the case.

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