Man shot in back of head

MANCHESTER — A Manchester man has been arrested following a shooting incident that left another man hospitalized with a gunshot wound to the head.

Clay County Sheriff Patrick Robinson reported that on May 3, 2026, Deputy Walter Marker responded to a call at AdventHealth in Manchester involving a male subject who had sustained a gunshot wound.

After speaking with the victim, Deputy Marker learned that the suspected shooter could be located at a residence on Ham Hollow Road. Deputies responded to the address, where they made contact with Tracy Smith, 48, of Manchester.

According to the sheriff’s report, Smith was advised of his Miranda rights and agreed to speak with officers. During the interview, Smith told deputies that the victim had come to his residence earlier and pawned a firearm in exchange for money taken from Smith’s debit card.

Smith stated the victim later returned to the residence intoxicated and acting aggressively, demanding the firearm be returned. Authorities say a verbal altercation followed, during which the victim was shot in the back of the head as he was leaving through the back door.

Investigators located the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting inside the residence. A spent shell casing was also recovered from a bedroom, which had reportedly been removed from the revolver.

Deputy Sgt. Wes Brumley and Kentucky State Police Trooper Weaver assisted in the investigation and arrest.

Smith was taken into custody and charged with assault, 1st degree; tampering with physical evidence; and contempt of court.

The condition of the victim has not been released. The investigation remains ongoing.