MADISON COUNTY, Ky. (Scripps News Lexington) — The man accused of murdering 32-year-old Jordan Morgan last week was arrested early Monday morning.
Shannon Gilday was found walking along Barnes Mill Road by Madison County Sheriff’s Office. He is charged with murder, burglary in the first degree, criminal mischief, assault, and two counts of attempted murder.
This photo provided to WLEX shows Jordan Morgan (R) with her mother, Lisa Foster (L). (WLEX)
“We hope that this news will bring some kind of relief, and we’re just thankful that the search for Gilday has ended,” said Trooper Adam Hall with Kentucky State Police. “Anytime there’s a loss of life, it’s tragic.”
Morgan was killed last week in a home invasion at her father’s home in Madison County. She is the daughter of former state representative C. Wesley Morgan.
>>>READ MORE: Jordan Morgan’s mother shares tragic loss
Police believe Gilday forced his way into the home, armed with a rifle.
Once inside, police believe he shot and killed Morgan while she was in her bed. Based on their initial investigation, police believe there was not a connection between Morgan and Gilday prior to the incident. Sgt. Robert Purdy said they currently believe she was not the target.
This booking photo provided by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office shows murder suspect Shannon Gilday, who is accused in the death of Jordan Morgan. (Madison County Sheriff’s Office)
After the initial shooting, police say Gilday confronted the homeowner when both fired gunshots at each other. The homeowner sustained non-life-threatening injuries and the armed suspect left the scene in a white passenger car.
Investigators are still working to determine a motive.
“Due to the nature of the incident, everyone has been on edge the past week,” said Hall. “A lot of times these investigations take a while, [first] to develop the suspect and identify them, and then to apprehend them.”
Police say Gilday has been cooperating with deputies and state police investigators.
Gilday was arraigned in Madison County District Court on Monday afternoon. His bond is set at $2 million.
This story was originally published Feb. 28 by WLEX in Lexington, an E.W. Scripps Company.
