Active Shooter in West Virginia: State Trooper Killed, Suspect in Custody
Introduction
On Friday, June 2, 2023, a West Virginia state police officer, Sgt. Cory Maynard, was fatally shot while responding to a complaint of a shooting in the Beech Creek area of Mingo County. State Police have identified Timothy Kennedy, 29, of Beech Creek, as the suspect in the shooting, which occurred in the same county where Sheriff Eugene Crum was shot to death in 2013.
Sgt. Cory Maynard: The Victim
Sgt. Cory Maynard was a beloved member of the West Virginia State Police force. Gov. Jim Justice said in a statement that he was “absolutely heartbroken” and extended sympathies to Maynard’s family. He called the brave men and women in law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day “an inspiration to us all.”
The Shooting
Upon arrival at the scene of the reported shooting, police were met with gunfire. Sgt. Maynard, who was hit in the exchange, was initially transported to a hospital in Logan. Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries. No other injuries were reported.
The Suspect and His Capture
The suspect, Timothy Kennedy, fled the scene, leading to an extensive search that involved nearby residents being advised to stay indoors and a graduation ceremony at Mingo Central High School being postponed. Kennedy was eventually taken into custody Friday night.
Motive
The motive for the shooting remains unknown. The investigation is still active and ongoing.
Mingo County’s Violent History
Mingo and neighboring McDowell County have a violent history. The counties are home to the legendary blood feud between the Hatfield family of West Virginia and the McCoy family of Kentucky. Mingo County was dubbed “Bloody Mingo” during the early 20th century coal mine wars, where ten people were killed in a 1920 gunbattle known as the “Matewan Massacre,” between miners led by a local police chief and a group of private security guards who were hired to evict the miners for joining a union.
Gwen Stefani News
First New Single in Two Years
Switching gears, pop star Gwen Stefani is back with her first song in two years, “True Babe.” The song is a collaboration with the Swedish production duo Jack & Coke and LA rock songwriter and producer KThrash. Stefani’s last song, “Slow Clap,” featuring Saweetie, was released in 2021.
Getting Back to Her Roots
Interestingly, Stefani’s new song with Sean Paul and Shenseea, titled “Light My Fire,” harkens back to Stefani’s early ska-pop hits from the early 2000s.
Returning to The Voice
Stefani is also returning as a coach on season 24 of The Voice, joining forces with Reba McEntire, John Legend, and Niall Horan.
Gwen Stefani European Tour Dates
June 21 — Prague Rocks Festival (Czech Republic)
June 23 — Warwick Castle / Warwick (UK)
June 24 — BST Hyde Park Festival / London (UK) (with Pink)
June 25 — BST Hyde Park Festival / London (UK) (with Pink)
Conclusion
The killing of a state trooper is a tragedy that serves as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face every day to keep us safe. While the motive for this shooting remains unclear, the suspect in custody serves as some measure of justice for Sgt. Maynard, his family, and fellow law enforcement officers. On a lighter note, pop star Gwen Stefani’s return to music with “True Babe” and her upcoming European tour are reasons to celebrate.
FAQ
Q1: Was anyone else injured in the shooting?
A1: No other injuries have been reported.
Q2: How long was the suspect in custody before being caught?
A2: The suspect was taken into custody Friday night after an extensive search.
Q3: Who is Gwen Stefani collaborating with on her new song?
A3: Gwen Stefani collaborated with Sean Paul and Shenseea on her new song, “Light My Fire.”
Q4: What are the U.K. tour dates for Gwen Stefani’s upcoming European tour?
A4: Gwen Stefani’s U.K. tour dates for her upcoming European tour are June 23 at Warwick Castle and June 24 and 25 at BST Hyde Park Festival in London (with Pink).
Q5: Will Gwen Stefani be returning to The Voice as a coach?
A5: Yes, Gwen Stefani will return as a coach on season 24 of The Voice.
