Louisville, Kentucky, December 27, 2025
Asa McNealy, a 30-year-old from Louisville, faces charges of wanton endangerment and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon after a confrontation with police in the Russell neighborhood. McNealy was shot by officers after he allegedly expressed that he was armed and did not comply with commands. Medical assistance was administered on-site before he was transported to the hospital in critical condition. Body camera footage from the incident is expected to be released soon, and McNealy’s arraignment is scheduled for December 30.
Louisville Police Shooting: Charges Filed Against Asa McNealy
Louisville, Kentucky – A 30-year-old man, Asa McNealy, has been charged with wanton endangerment and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon following an incident in the Russell neighborhood on December 18, 2025. The charges were filed after McNealy was shot by Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) officers during a confrontation on West Chestnut Street.
Details of the Incident
On the morning of December 18, LMPD responded to reports of gunfire detected by the ShotSpotter system in the 2300 block of West Chestnut Street. Upon arrival, officers encountered McNealy, who fled into a nearby backyard. During the encounter, McNealy informed officers that he was armed and refused to comply with commands to raise his hands. When he reached toward his waistband, Officer John Heisler discharged his weapon multiple times, striking McNealy. Officers provided medical assistance until emergency services arrived, and McNealy was transported to the hospital in critical condition. A semiautomatic handgun was recovered from the scene. No officers were injured during the incident. Body camera footage is expected to be released within ten business days, in accordance with LMPD policy. McNealy is scheduled for arraignment on December 30, 2025.
Background on the Russell Neighborhood
The Russell neighborhood, located in west Louisville, has experienced several incidents involving law enforcement in recent years. Notably, in November 2025, a man was fatally shot in the 2700 block of Cedar Street. The victim, identified as 27-year-old Isaiah J. Washington, was declared dead at the scene. A woman, Maria Swann, 25, was arrested and charged with murder in connection with the incident.
Recent Developments in Louisville Police Incidents
In a separate case, the city of Louisville settled a lawsuit for $1.8 million with Bruce Warrick, who was shot by LMPD Officer Sarah Stumler in 2017. The lawsuit alleged that Stumler had no basis to believe Warrick posed a threat when she fired at him. The settlement was reached after a federal judge dismissed the most serious felony charges against the officers involved in the Breonna Taylor case.
Conclusion
The recent incident in the Russell neighborhood underscores ongoing tensions between law enforcement and the community. The forthcoming release of body camera footage is anticipated to provide further clarity on the events of December 18, 2025. As investigations continue, the community remains attentive to developments and the broader discourse on police practices in Louisville.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges have been filed against Asa McNealy?
Asa McNealy has been charged with wanton endangerment and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon following an incident in the Russell neighborhood on December 18, 2025.
What led to the shooting of Asa McNealy by LMPD officers?
During an encounter on West Chestnut Street, McNealy informed officers that he was armed and refused to comply with commands to raise his hands. When he reached toward his waistband, Officer John Heisler discharged his weapon multiple times, striking McNealy.
What is the status of the body camera footage from the incident?
Body camera footage is expected to be released within ten business days, in accordance with LMPD policy.
What is the history of police-related incidents in the Russell neighborhood?
The Russell neighborhood has experienced several incidents involving law enforcement in recent years, including a fatal shooting in November 2025 and a 2017 shooting involving Officer Sarah Stumler.
What recent developments have occurred in other Louisville police cases?
The city of Louisville settled a lawsuit for $1.8 million with Bruce Warrick, who was shot by LMPD Officer Sarah Stumler in 2017. Additionally, a federal judge dismissed the most serious felony charges against the officers involved in the Breonna Taylor case.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | December 18, 2025 |
| Location | 2300 block of West Chestnut Street, Russell neighborhood, Louisville, Kentucky |
| Individual Involved | Asa McNealy, 30-year-old male |
| Charges Filed | Wanton endangerment and possession of a handgun by a convicted felon |
| Officer Involved | Officer John Heisler |
| Outcome | McNealy transported to hospital in critical condition; no officers injured |
| Body Camera Footage | Expected to be released within ten business days |
| Arraignment Date | December 30, 2025 |
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