Trial date set for man accused of killing former Ky. lawmaker’s daughter

RICHMOND , Ky. (WKYT) - A trial date has been set for a man accused of shooting his way into a former state lawmaker’s mansion and killing his daughter.

Shannon Gilday is charged with the murder of Jordan Morgan and other offenses. Morgan died in the gunfire in February 2022. Jordan was staying with her father, former Ky Rep. Wesley Morgan at his large home in Richmond.

A Madison County judge ruled there wasn’t enough evidence presented over Gilday’s mental health at the time of the shooting to disqualify the death penalty. With that determination made, the trial was set to begin May 1, 2026.

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Trial could last entire month

The trial could last the entire month of May, as 20 court days have been set aside for evidence and arguments.

“I feel like we are finally moving forward,” said Mica Nicole, a friend of Jordan Morgan.

For three and a half years, Morgan’s family and friends have watched the same thing repeatedly — Gilday walk into court with another delay in the legal process.

“We are ready to get this trial underway. In February, 4 years. 4 years way too long,” Nicole said.

Morgan’s family and friends want justice but know the trial will be difficult.

“We have been warned by the commonwealth and I think it will show the brutality of what the murder was. What was in his mind,” Nicole said.

They also said they look forward to the trial highlighting how horrible the crime could have been.

“You have to remember, is that his intent was to kill an entire family. He only succeeded in one,” Nicole said.

Gilday’s attorney told the judge he plans to file a change of venue motion to move the trial out of Madison County.