75-Year-Old Samuel R. White shot dead in Wayne County, Suspect Arrested

MONTICELLO, Ky. – A fatal shooting in Wayne County has left the community in shock as the Kentucky State Police continue their investigation into the death of 75-year-old Samuel R. White of Monticello. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning around 11:30 a.m., when the Kentucky State Police were notified by Wayne County 911 of a shooting on R Barnett Road. Upon arrival, officers discovered White lying dead in the roadway with a gunshot wound.

Initial investigations revealed that the shooting stemmed from a heated verbal altercation between White and 66-year-old Willard Ray Upchurch, also of Monticello. The argument took place at a logging yard, where tensions escalated rapidly. According to authorities, during the dispute, Upchurch pulled out a firearm and fatally shot White. The Wayne County coroner later pronounced White dead at the scene, marking a tragic end to a conflict that spiraled out of control.

Following the incident, Willard Ray Upchurch was promptly arrested by troopers on charges of murder and tampering with physical evidence. Upchurch was taken into custody without incident, and he is currently being held as the investigation continues. The charges against Upchurch are severe, reflecting the gravity of the crime and the impact it has had on the local community. The investigation aims to uncover more details about what led to the deadly confrontation.

The Kentucky State Police have been working diligently to gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. Assistance at the scene was provided by personnel from Post 11, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, Wayne County EMS, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, and KSP Aircraft. The collaborative effort underscores the seriousness of the incident and the determination of law enforcement to ensure that justice is served.

Community members in Monticello have expressed their sorrow and disbelief over the tragic loss of Samuel R. White. Known for his kind demeanor, White’s death has left a void in the community, and many are struggling to come to terms with the violent nature of his passing. As the investigation continues, residents are left with questions about how a simple argument could escalate into a deadly encounter.

The Kentucky State Police have stated that the investigation is ongoing and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. They emphasize the importance of community cooperation in solving such cases and ensuring public safety. As authorities work to provide answers, the Monticello community remains united in their grief, hoping for justice and a peaceful resolution to this senseless act of violence.