ClayCoNews staff report 6-1-2025
MANCHESTER, KY — A 42-year-old Manchester man, identified as Joseph Smith was arrested on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, following a shooting incident in a local parking lot, according to Clay County authorities.
The suspect faces multiple felony charges, including attempted murder, wanton endangerment in the first degree, and a misdemeanor charge for menacing, after allegedly opening fire in a public area.
The incident occurred in Clay County, though specific details about the location and circumstances remain limited, as no official press release has been issued by the Kentucky State Police (KSP). The arrest was made by KSP Officer D. Rose, badge number 815, at approximately 7:45 p.m. on May 20, 2025.
Smith was booked into the Clay County Detention Center, where he is being held on a $50,000 cash bond. His court date has not been specified in available records. Joseph Smith is described as a white male, 6 feet tall, weighing 210 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.
Photo of the accused is courtesy of the Clay County Detention Center.
The charges against him stem from an alleged discharge of a firearm in a manner that endangered others, coupled with actions that constituted a direct threat to at least one individual. The attempted murder charge suggests an intent to kill, though no information has been released regarding injuries or the number of victims involved.
Local authorities have not provided further details, and competing news outlets have placed their reports behind paywalls, limiting public access to additional information. The lack of a press release from KSP has left some questions unanswered, including the motive behind the shooting and the events leading up to it. ClayCoNews is working to gather more information as the case develops.
This incident adds to a series of high-profile incidents in Clay County, which has faced significant challenges in 2025, including severe flooding and other public safety concerns.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
For updates on this case monitor official announcements from the Kentucky State Police, the Manchester Police Department, and the Clay County Sheriff's Office.
Joseph Smith’s next court appearance and any additional charges will be reported when and if more information becomes available.
