On Monday, April 20, 2026 the Columbia Police Department, along with the Campbellsville Police Department, assisted the Adair County Sheriff’s Office during an Active Shooter Incident that occurred on Chestnut Grove Road in Adair County.
During the incident, Columbia Chief of Police Evan Burton and Campbellsville Police Sergeant Elliott Taylor operated DJI Avata 2 drones to provide aerial observation in support of responding agencies. While assisting with the operation, the Campbellsville Police Department’s drone was shot down while in flight by the suspect.
Following the incident, Chief Burton contacted an anonymous Adair County resident who is a strong supporter of law enforcement and informed them of the loss. The resident generously purchased a replacement drone for the Campbellsville Police Department.
“The partnership between law enforcement agencies is vital in this profession. There were multiple agencies from nearly all adjoining counties who responded to assist during this incident. I want to personally thank the Campbellsville Police Department for their support. As a token of appreciation, a replacement drone has been provided.”
The Columbia Police Department extends its gratitude to all agencies that responded and assisted during the incident and recognizes the continued importance of cooperation and teamwork in protecting the communities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Evan Burton
Chief of Police
Pictured left to right: Columbia Chief of Police Evan Burton, Campbellsville Sergeant Elliott Taylor, Campbellsville Chief of Police Shannon Wilson.
