VIPER, KY — A quiet Perry County community is in shock after a tragic shooting claimed the life of 63-year-old Wallace Cornett of Viper. According to Perry County Sheriff Joe Engle, the incident occurred around 1:57 p.m. on Monday at a residence located at 1905 Middle Fork of Maces Creek Road.
Authorities say a 16-year-old suspect is now in custody and has been charged with one count of murder after allegedly shooting Cornett with a shotgun inside the home.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, where Cornett was pronounced dead. His body will be sent to the state medical examiner’s office in Frankfort for further examination.
This deeply unsettling incident has left the community reeling as investigators continue to work through the details surrounding the case. No additional information about the motive or the relationship between the victim and the suspect has been released at this time.
The Perry County Sheriff’s Office and coroner’s team are leading the investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Please keep the Cornett family and all affected in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
