A 14-year-old visiting friends in Estill County was fatally shot outside a home on Clark Road in Irvine, Kentucky, on Friday, July 12, 2024. The victim, Jett LaRalston Lee Ballard, born December 13, 2009, lived in nearby Berea and had been looking forward to attending Madison Southern High School. He enjoyed video games, roller skating, biking and football, and had been a two-year All-Star Classic participant with the Farristown Middle Football program.

The shooting occurred about 1:30 p.m.; investigators say the firearm was discharged by a 13-year-old and the shooting was accidental. Despite efforts to save him at the scene, Jett was later pronounced dead, and the Estill County Coroner confirmed his identity. The Kentucky State Police Post 7 from Richmond assisted the Estill County Sheriff’s Office, and authorities stated they do not suspect foul play. No arrests have been made and the investigation remains ongoing.

If anyone was in the Clark Road area that afternoon or has information about the incident, please share what is known.