SALVISA, Ky. — Em McCormick, a 33-year-old woman, remains in custody following a decision by a Mercer County judge to deny her bond in connection with the shooting death of her estranged husband, Andrew Hillard. The case, which has captured local attention, is now headed to a grand jury for further review.
The ruling, issued on October 9, follows an incident that occurred on August 23 during an alleged domestic dispute at McCormick’s residence on McAfee Lane. Investigators found Hillard, 35, dead at the scene with a gunshot wound to his back. McCormick claims that during their divorce proceedings, Hillard entered her home, instigated an argument, and physically confronted her, prompting her to retrieve a handgun. However, officers have pointed out discrepancies between her account and the physical evidence collected.
Mercer District Judge Patrick F. Barsotti cited the circumstances surrounding Hillard’s death when denying McCormick bail. He emphasized the significant details of the gunshot wound and the crime scene, affirming that the decision does not equate to a judgment of guilt but is based on the severity of the charges. McCormick has been held at the Woodford County Detention Center since her arrest on August 31.
As the case advances toward a grand jury, McCormick waived her right to a pretrial hearing during a court appearance on October 1. The grand jury will evaluate whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with an indictment, but this stage does not determine guilt or innocence. As of October 19, no grand jury decision had been publicly disclosed.
The timeline of the incident includes a series of texts McCormick sent to a friend just before deputies arrived, indicating that Hillard had come to the house uninvited. According to the complaint, she asked for help, mentioning that he was trying to access the residence. Upon entry, she alleges an argument ensued, after which she claims to have shot Hillard while they were moving toward the hallway.
Authorities noted several factors complicating McCormick’s narrative. The initial investigation revealed no signs of struggle at the scene or forced entry into the home. Additionally, a key to the rear door was discovered in Hillard’s hand, raising questions about the circumstances of his entry. Witness accounts and physical evidence have also revealed inconsistencies with McCormick’s statements.
The couple had been navigating a divorce since July 2025, following a separation that occurred a month prior. The divorce petition described the marriage as irretrievably broken. Just days before the incident, McCormick’s attorney withdrew from the case, an occurrence that has not been directly linked to the shooting.
There is no documented history of domestic violence involving Hillard, which has emerged as a significant point of discussion. Investigators have stated that there were no protective orders or previous police reports that would have restricted Hillard’s access to the residence, further complicating the context of McCormick’s claim of feeling threatened.
Following her arrest, McCormick initially entered a not-guilty plea to a murder charge connected to domestic violence. In response to concerns about her ties outside the state, Judge Barsotti declined to set bond at her first hearing. The recent decision to deny bond reflects the gravity of the situation as the case moves toward the next phase.
The proceedings will continue to unfold as prosecutors prepare their case for the grand jury, who will play a crucial role in determining whether the matter escalates to circuit court. The question of McCormick’s intent and the circumstances surrounding the shooting are set to be examined in detail, highlighting the complexities of the legal and emotional narratives involved. McCormick is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a court of law.