Nicholasville, Kentucky – James Milton’s life ended in tragedy after a domestic dispute spiraled into deadly violence at an Edgewood Drive apartment complex. Police confirmed the 31-year-old was fatally struck by gunfire, while his mother suffered an arm injury from a stray bullet in the same chaotic burst of violence.

Nicholasville police said the incident unfolded late Wednesday evening when an argument between Milton and his girlfriend escalated beyond control. Investigators believe he attempted to force his way into a neighboring apartment during the confrontation, triggering a violent exchange that ended with multiple shots fired.

Authorities confirmed Milton was hit in the chest and collapsed inside the apartment foyer. His mother, Samantha, who was nearby at the time, was unintentionally struck by gunfire in her arm. Emergency crews responded quickly and rushed both victims to the University of Kentucky Hospital. Milton succumbed to his injuries, while his mother is expected to survive.

The suspected shooter, whose identity has not been disclosed by police, did not flee the scene. Instead, he stayed behind and cooperated fully with responding officers. Officials say his statements are being carefully reviewed, and while no immediate arrest has been made, the case remains active as prosecutors evaluate evidence.

Residents of the Edgewood Drive community described scenes of panic as gunshots shattered the calm of their quiet complex. Several reported hearing raised voices just before the shooting erupted, followed by a rapid response from law enforcement and emergency medical teams. Flashing lights and caution tape stretched across the complex as detectives began their investigation.

Investigators are piecing together the timeline of events, working to establish how the argument escalated into deadly gunfire. They are examining whether the weapon used belonged to the shooter legally and whether any history of conflict existed between Milton, his girlfriend, and the alleged gunman. Detectives have not ruled out potential self-defense claims.

Authorities have reassured the community that there is no broader threat, emphasizing that the incident was isolated and tied directly to the domestic dispute. Still, residents remain shaken by the violence, with some calling for more visible police patrols to help restore a sense of safety in their neighborhood.

The death of James Milton has left family members, friends, and neighbors mourning a loss that feels both sudden and senseless. Those who knew him described a man struggling with personal challenges but never imagined his life would end in such violent circumstances. His mother’s injury has added another layer of grief, as the family confronts both sorrow and physical recovery.

Nicholasville officials expressed condolences to the family, acknowledging the lasting impact of the shooting on both the victims’ loved ones and the wider community. Leaders encouraged residents to support one another while waiting for investigators to conclude their review.

As the Edgewood Drive investigation continues, authorities remain committed to uncovering every detail that led to the fatal shooting. For the Milton family and the Nicholasville community, the road forward will be defined by grief, healing, and the search for justice in the wake of unthinkable loss.