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Estranged Wife Fatally Shot in Kentucky Bar
7 Mar
Summary
- Man arrested for fatally shooting estranged wife at a bar.
- Suspect fled to Illinois before being apprehended by police.
- Incident occurred during ongoing divorce proceedings.
Phillip Whitnel was arrested for allegedly fatally shooting his estranged wife, Stephanie Stacey, on December 13, 2025. The tragic event unfolded at KC's Bar and Grill in Paducah, where Stacey was working.
Witnesses reported that Whitnel entered the establishment and shot Stacey multiple times before fleeing. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The couple was reportedly in the midst of divorce proceedings at the time of the shooting.
Following the incident, detectives secured a warrant for Whitnel's arrest. He was found to have fled to Illinois, where he was apprehended by Illinois State Police. He was initially held at Franklin County Jail before being extradited to McCracken County, Kentucky.
Whitnel faces charges of murder relating to domestic violence and violation of a protective order. He is scheduled to appear in court on March 12, 2026. Stephanie Stacey is remembered for her love, kindness, and dedication to her children.
