Deputy Joshua C. Phipps

After a subject fled a traffic stop, Deputy Phipps and officers from multiple agencies searched the area. As Deputy Phipps was clearing an outbuilding, he was ambushed and shot.

He was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced deceased.

The suspect also died.

In addition to three years of service with the the Russell County Sheriff's Office, Deputy Phipps had previously served with the Louisville Metro Police Department (KY) for two years.

In December 2024, Lindsey Wilson College in Columbia, KY, established the Joshua C. Phipps Memorial Scholarship to be awarded annually to a graduate from Adair County High School or Russell County High School.

In March 2025, the Kentucky House of Representatives passed Joint Resolution 5, designating U.S. Route 127 in Russell County as the Deputy Sheriff Joshua Phipps Memorial Highway.