COLUMBIA, KY – On the morning of Saturday, March 23, 2024, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 received a call from Adair County 911 Center for assistance. Adair County Sheriff’s Department requested investigative assistance regarding a shooting incident at a residence on Old Montpelier Road in Adair County.
KSP Detectives launched an investigation into the incident and determined that Joseph South, age 57 of Columbia, was in the process of being evicted from the residence he was renting from Earl Coffey, age 86 of Columbia. Mr. South arrived at Mr. Coffey’s residence and fired several rounds from a firearm into the residence. In the process of the incident, Mr. Coffey suffered fatal injuries from apparent gunshot wounds. Four other individuals were also in the residence at the time of the incident.
Joseph South was located and detained at the scene by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office. Detective Dexter Colvin arrested and charged Mr. South with Murder and 4 counts of Wanton Endangerment – 1st degree. Mr. South was lodged in the Adair County Jail.
The investigation continues and is being led by Detective Dexter Colvin. He was assisted by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, Adair County EMS, Adair County Coroner’s Office, and other KSP Troopers and Detectives.
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