KSP Investigates a Shooting Incident in Clay County

MANCHESTER, Ky. (August 17, 2026) – The Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 11 London is investigating a shooting incident in Manchester, Ky. On August 15, 2026, at around 10:00 p.m. EST, KSP Post 11 London received a call about a shooting incident on Arnetts Fork Road in Clay County from Clay County 911.

Preliminary investigation determined that James Lawson, 55 years old of Big Creek, Ky, and Jeremy Petrey, 36 years old of Big Creek, Ky, got into a verbal argument in front of the home of Mr. Petrey. The argument escalated, resulting in gunfire being exchanged between the two parties. Both Mr. Petrey and Mr. Lawson were struck by gunfire, at which time Mr. Lawson left the scene in a vehicle.  

Mr. Lawson was located by police in his vehicle a short distance away from the initial scene, unresponsive. Life-saving measures were attempted but unsuccessful. Mr. Lawson was pronounced deceased on scene by the Clay County Coroner’s Office. Mr. Petrey sustained minor injuries, but declined medical treatment.

This investigation remains ongoing by Detective Samuel Peace of KSP Post 11. An autopsy has been scheduled and is pending. Det. Peace was assisted on scene by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Clay County EMS, the Clay County Coroner’s Office, and KSP personnel.

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