LMPD Chief Moves to Fire Officer After Fatal Louisville Shooting: Body Camera Video Sparks Investigation
LMPD Chief Begins Termination Process Following Fatal Louisville Police Shooting
A controversial police shooting in Louisville, Kentucky, has prompted swift action from the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), with Chief Paul Humphrey announcing plans to terminate Officer Nathan Stotts after the fatal shooting of Martin Nitskin during a disturbance call over the weekend.
The incident, which occurred on the evening of May 30, has generated significant public attention after body camera footage was released and reviewed by department leadership. Authorities say the shooting remains under multiple investigations, including criminal and administrative reviews.
What Happened Before the Shooting?
According to Deputy Chief Emily McKinley, the events leading up to the fatal encounter began at a residence located on the 3000 block of Cromarty Way in Louisville.
Police said Martin Nitskin was spending the evening with his girlfriend and two other women while watching a basketball game. At some point, Nitskin reportedly became agitated and allegedly assaulted his girlfriend.
Authorities stated that when the two other women attempted to intervene, they were also assaulted. The women reportedly fled to a neighboring residence for protection while Nitskin’s girlfriend called 911 seeking emergency assistance.
Escalating Disturbance in the Neighborhood
Before officers arrived at the scene, investigators say Nitskin’s behavior became increasingly erratic.
According to police:
- He removed all of his clothing and walked through the neighborhood naked.
- He allegedly damaged property by tearing shutters from a home.
- He reportedly chased a vehicle down the street.
- A neighbor who attempted to calm him down became involved in a physical altercation that allegedly resulted in a dislocated shoulder.
As the situation unfolded, LMPD’s air unit monitored the incident from above and relayed information to responding officers.
Body Camera Footage Captures Fatal Encounter
Officer Nathan Stotts was reportedly the first officer to arrive at the scene.
During a press conference, LMPD officials presented body camera footage showing the encounter between Stotts and Nitskin.
The video reportedly shows Officer Stotts approaching Nitskin and repeatedly ordering him to stop and raise his hands. Nitskin, who was unarmed and unclothed according to police accounts, continued walking toward the officer.
Moments later, Stotts fired his weapon, striking Nitskin.
Emergency responders were unable to save him, and he was later pronounced dead.
The deputy coroner subsequently ruled Nitskin’s death a homicide, indicating that it resulted from actions taken by another individual.
Chief Paul Humphrey Announces Termination Proceedings
Following an initial review of evidence, including body camera footage, 911 recordings, dispatch communications, and other preliminary materials, Chief Paul Humphrey announced that he had begun the process of terminating Officer Nathan Stotts.
Humphrey stated that the officer’s actions did not align with departmental standards, training, or expectations.
According to the chief, law enforcement officers are entrusted with significant authority and are expected to uphold the highest professional standards when using force.
Humphrey emphasized that accountability remains essential to maintaining public trust and confidence in policing.
Who Is Officer Nathan Stotts?
LMPD officials confirmed that Nathan Stotts joined the department in February 2024.
At the time of the incident, he was assigned to the department’s Sixth Division.
The termination process follows less than three years of service with the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Multiple Investigations Underway
Authorities confirmed that the case remains under active investigation.
Several agencies and oversight bodies are reviewing the shooting, including:
LMPD Public Integrity Unit
The department’s internal investigative division is conducting a criminal review of the officer’s actions.
Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office
Findings from the criminal investigation will be forwarded to prosecutors for evaluation and potential legal action.
Kentucky State Police
State authorities will independently examine evidence related to the shooting.
Office of the Inspector General
The state oversight agency will also review the circumstances surrounding the fatal encounter.
Officials stressed that no final determinations regarding criminal liability have been made while investigations remain ongoing.
Community Questions and Public Reaction
The shooting has reignited discussions regarding police use of force, crisis intervention, and responses to individuals experiencing behavioral or mental health crises.
Community members and civil rights advocates have raised questions about whether alternative tactics could have been used before deadly force was employed.
The release of body camera footage and the chief’s decision to pursue termination have intensified public scrutiny as residents await the results of independent investigations.
Family Seeks Answers After Martin Nitskin’s Death
As investigations continue, attention remains focused on the death of Martin Nitskin and the circumstances that led to the fatal encounter.
Chief Humphrey publicly expressed sympathy for Nitskin’s family, acknowledging the profound impact the incident has had on loved ones and the broader Louisville community.
The final outcome of both the criminal investigation and departmental review will likely determine whether additional disciplinary or legal actions follow.
Key Takeaways
- Martin Nitskin was fatally shot by LMPD Officer Nathan Stotts on May 30, 2026.
- Police say Nitskin was involved in multiple disturbances before officers arrived.
- Body camera footage shows the encounter moments before shots were fired.
- LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey has initiated the process to terminate Officer Stotts.
- Multiple agencies, including Kentucky State Police and the Office of the Inspector General, are investigating.
- The deputy coroner ruled Nitskin’s death a homicide.
- No final criminal determination has been announced.
FAQ
Why is Officer Nathan Stotts being fired?
LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey stated that after reviewing body camera footage, 911 calls, dispatch records, and other evidence, he concluded that the officer’s actions did not meet department training standards, policies, or values.
Who was Martin Nitskin?
Martin Nitskin was the man fatally shot during the police response to a disturbance on Cromarty Way in Louisville on May 30, 2026.
Was Martin Nitskin armed?
Based on information released during the press conference, police indicated that Nitskin was naked during the encounter. Authorities have not publicly reported that he was armed.
Is the shooting under investigation?
Yes. The shooting is being reviewed by LMPD’s Public Integrity Unit, the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, Kentucky State Police, and the Office of the Inspector General.
Has Officer Nathan Stotts been charged?
As of the latest update, no criminal charges have been announced. Investigations remain ongoing.
When did Nathan Stotts join LMPD?
According to department officials, Stotts joined the Louisville Metro Police Department in February 2024 and was assigned to the Sixth Division.