Police spokeswoman Brenna Angel said investigators believe the ex-girlfriend of William J. Redd, 40, shot the man during an incident involving domestic violence. Redd had an active domestic violence order against him that required that he have no contact with his ex-girlfriend and required him to stay 500 feet away from her at all times, Angel said.

He was conscious when he was taken to a Lexington hospital but had serious injuries, Lt. Jeremy Tuttle said.

Later Tuesday, Redd was charged with violating a domestic violence order and fourth-degree assault — domestic violence.

Police did not comment on whether or not he was armed.

Kildare Court is a small street between Russell Cave Road and Newtown Pike in Lexington, Kentucky.

We often say ‘a restraining order is just a piece of paper’, but here’s another example of just how little some people take these protective orders against them.

I’m glad Redd’s ex-girlfriend had a firearm with her to defend herself against an attack she knew a DVPO would not prevent.

If you feel threatened by an abuser or are in fear for your safety or life, please reach out for help and don’t hesitate to call police if you are in immediate danger.

Think danger may be in your near future?

Take a class. Connect with a group in your area. Protect your firearm and teach others gun safety.

Together, we can empower women to strengthen their personal protection plan to ensure they are never victimized again.