Joe P. Asher

Staff Writer

Kentucky State Police Det. Mark Mefford has made two arrests following an investigation into a fatal shooting incident that occurred in Knox County on Thursday.

The investigation began Thursday when KSP Post 10 in Harlan received a call from Knox County 911 advising there had been a shooting in the Walker community and requesting KSP respond to the scene. Once on the scene, KSP was advised by Jessie Jaynes, 45, and Angela Jaynes, 39, both of Walker, that they found James W. Cox at their residence when they arrived home.

Cox was pronounced dead at the scene by Knox County Coroner Mike Blevins.

According to KSP Public Affairs Officer Shane Jacobs, both Jessie and Angela Jaynes have been charged with the murder of Cox.

“Based on information we received, we arrested Jessie and Angela Jaynes around 7 p.m. Sunday in the shooting death of James Cox,” said Jacobs. “We know that Cox had been shot twice. Based on the evidence and information we have obtained, we know both Jessie and Angela Jaynes were involved in the shooting.”

Jacobs noted the investigation revealed that Angela Jaynes and Cox knew each other and may have been involved in a relationship at some point.

Investigations show the shooting took place outside the residence.

“We know that Cox was never inside their residence,” said Jacobs. “The altercation and shooting took place outside.”

Jacobs said the Knox County Grand Jury will receive the case.

“We don’t feel that this is a self-defense case. However, we will still take this to the Knox County Grand Jury and let them decide whether to pursue the murder charges,” said Jacobs.

Jacobs said the case is still under investigation and no further details can be released at this time.

Mefford is investigating the incident.

Mefford was assisted at the scene by troopers Russell Maynard, Brian Maupin, George Howard, and Det. Jason York and Sgt. Jason Bunch.

Jessie and Angela Jaynes are being held in the Knox County Detention Center.

Reach Joe P. Asher at 606-573-4510 or jasher@heartlandpublications.com