Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources conservation officers assisted a Lee County Sheriff’s deputy late Friday in a vehicle pursuit that included gunfire.
About 10:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 9, two Kentucky Fish and Wildlife conservation officers were nearby investigating a separate case when they responded to assist a Lee County Sheriff’s deputy.
According to Kentucky State Police, the initial investigation indicates the deputy attempted to stop the suspect for a traffic violation. It is alleged that the suspect failed to stop and fired several gunshots during an ensuing vehicle chase. The officers and deputy pursued the vehicle onto Butler Ridge Road, where the suspect drove his vehicle at the officers. The conservation officers both fired at the vehicle. The suspect then lost control of the vehicle and struck a garage before being taken into custody.
The officers and deputy were not injured during the incident. Keith Bradley, 43, of Beattyville, suffered only minor injuries and faces multiple charges.
“We are very grateful that all three of these brave officers were not hurt,” said Frank Jemley III, acting Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Commissioner. “Beyond enforcing hunting, fishing and boating laws in Kentucky, conservation officers are trained to handle dangerous situations like this one. Like all first responders, they put their lives on the line every day to protect the citizens of the Commonwealth.”
Bradley was transported to Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson, where he was treated and released. He is being held at the Three Forks Regional Jail in Beattyville on charges of wanton endangerment of a police officer, fleeing or evading police, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, first degree possession of methamphetamine and other charges.
Kentucky State Police is conducting the ongoing investigation.
(provided by Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources)
