Keavy man charged with attempted murder of police officer

A man is facing charges after a police chase in Laurel County, according to Kentucky State Police.

KSP says it happened on Sunday, February 4.

They say the incident began after the London Police Department attempted to stop a vehicle for suspicion of impaired driving.

They say the vehicle didn’t stop, resulting in a vehicle pursuit. Deputies with the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office also joined the pursuit.

KSP says during the pursuit, the driver brandished a handgun out of the driver’s window and shot multiple times in the direction of the officers.

They say the vehicle turned onto Brannon Mill Road, where it left the roadway into a residential area and stopped.

KSP says the driver, identified as 31-year-old Dylan Southerland of Keavy, exited the vehicle and began shooting in the direction of officers. Officers and deputies then fired back, striking Southerland.

Officers then placed Southerland under arrest and administered first-aid until EMS arrived.

On Saturday, Southerland was released from UK Hospital and was transported to the Laurel County Correctional Center.

Southerland is charged with four counts of attempted murder of a police officer.

KSP says additional charges are anticipated.

Southerland is due in court on February 27.