Kentucky State Police Conducts Death Investigation Following Tragic Murder-Suicide in Lee County

BEATTYVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Richmond Post 7 is investigating a tragic murder-suicide that has left the small community of Beattyville reeling. On the afternoon of Monday, June 16, 2025, at approximately 4:22 p.m. (EDT), Lee County Sheriff Joe Lucas requested assistance from KSP after discovering the bodies of two individuals during a welfare check at a residence on Sally Davis Road in rural Lee County.

According to authorities, the deceased have been identified as Bearl D. Ashcraft Jr., 48, and Hayley M. Davidson, 28, both residents of Beattyville. The couple was reportedly in a relationship. Preliminary findings indicate that Ashcraft fatally shot Davidson before turning the weapon on himself in what investigators are calling a murder-suicide.

Both individuals were pronounced dead at the scene by the Lee County Coroner’s Office. Each suffered fatal gunshot wounds. The motive behind the deadly violence has not yet been publicly disclosed, but authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The bodies of the deceased have been transported to the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort for autopsies, which are expected to confirm the initial findings. Toxicology reports and further forensic analysis may provide additional insight in the days to come.

KSP Detective Casey Caudill has been assigned as the lead investigator, with support from other Post 7 personnel. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Lee County Coroner’s Office are assisting in the investigation.

The incident has stunned the local community, as many try to make sense of the tragedy. Friends, neighbors, and loved ones are grappling with shock and grief, and the emotional toll of such a devastating event is being felt deeply throughout the region.

This tragic event also brings renewed focus to issues surrounding domestic violence and mental health. Though details remain limited, officials urge community members to speak up if they suspect someone may be in danger or experiencing emotional distress.

Anyone with information that may aid the investigation is strongly encouraged to contact Kentucky State Police Richmond Post 7 at (859)-623-4710.

As the investigation continues, KSP has stated that updates will be provided as new details become available. The agency expressed its condolences to the families of both individuals and reiterated its commitment to conducting a thorough and respectful inquiry into the circumstances of this heartbreaking case.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or emotional distress, help is available:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

Community members are encouraged to look out for one another and to report any signs of danger or instability. In the wake of this tragedy, Lee County is left to mourn the loss of two lives and reflect on the importance of intervention, support, and awareness.