In the late summer of 2015, the community of Pineville, Kentucky, was shaken by the tragic death of 25-year-old Erik Bo Barnett. A resident of Pineville, Barnett's life came to a sudden and violent end on August 26, 2015, within the walls of the Bell County Courthouse. The events of that day unfolded after Barnett, a male, was taken into custody following a court appearance.
Reports indicate that after failing a drug test, he was being escorted by a bailiff to be transferred.
While inside an elevator, an altercation occurred between Barnett and the bailiff. During the struggle, the bailiff was knocked to the ground, and Barnett managed to take his weapon. Tragically, before anyone could intervene, Barnett sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The bailiff was not physically injured during the incident.
The investigation that followed focused on the circumstances that allowed the incident to occur, particularly the fact that Barnett was not handcuffed at the time. The Bell County Sheriff's Department initiated a review of their protocols in the handling of inmates. The case was investigated by the Kentucky State Police, and an autopsy was scheduled to be performed by the State Medical Examiner's Office. There were no arrests or suspects in connection with his death, as it was determined to be a suicide. Erik Barnett was survived by his wife, children, and parents. Funeral services were held, and he was laid to rest in the Cannon Creek Cemetery.
