Man charged with murder in fatal Harlan County shooting

HARLAN COUNTY, Ky. — One man is dead and another is facing a murder charge following a reported shooting in Harlan County.

According to the Kentucky State Police, troopers responded Saturday at around 4:10 a.m. after receiving a 911 call reporting a shooting on Coldiron Branch in Cumberland.

Troopers say they arrived on scene, along with Lifeguard Ambulance.

Upon arrival, authorities say they located 43-year-old Brian Johnson dead from an apparent shotgun wound to the back.

Authorities say the coroner pronounced Johnson dead on scene.

During this investigation, troopers say 45-year-old James Sizemore was taken into custody and charged with murder.

An autopsy has been requested, authorities say, which will be conducted at the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort.

The investigation remains ongoing.