The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Critical Incident Response Team continues to investigate an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Sept. 16, 2024, in Russell County.

On Feb. 27, 2025, troopers from Post 15, Columbia, served an arrest warrant for Linda M. Ashbrook, from Russell Springs, Ky., on charges of Complicity to Murder, Hindering Prosecution, Wanton Endangerment, and Persistent Felony Offender relating to the death of Russell County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) Deputy Joshua Phipps. Ms. Ashbrook was taken into custody without incident. She was lodged in the Russell County Jail on a $100,000 cash bond.

Two other individuals were with her at the time and were arrested on outstanding warrants not related to the officer-involved shooting investigation.

KSP has statewide jurisdiction and investigates officer-involved shootings throughout the commonwealth as requested by local, state, and federal 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’s 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.