Nevada state troopers killed in hit-and-run as they helped driver on Vegas freeway

Two Nevada state troopers were struck and killed by an impaired driver in a hit-and-run in Las Vegas early Thursday morning while they conducted a routine check on the state’s busiest freeway.

Jemarcus Williams, 46, is accused of killing the troopers and evading law enforcement for hours after his vehicle was discovered at a nearby apartment complex, Las Vegas police Undersheriff Andrew Walsh said during a press conference.

Sgt. Michael Abbate and Trooper Alberto Felix had stopped to check on a driver asleep behind the wheel on Interstate 15 near downtown Las Vegas around 3:30 a.m before the suspect, driving a white Chevrolet HHR, allegedly struck both men and fled the scene.

Police said one trooper died on the freeway while another was rushed to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead.

The suspect’s unoccupied car was found at an apartment complex around 8 a.m.

Williams faces charges of reckless driving, DUI, and failing to stop at the scene of the crash.

Since his alleged crime left two people dead, the charges include a sentencing enhancement, which could add decades to Williams’ punishment if he is convicted.

A saddening video released by the department showed the bodies of both troopers being transported to the coroner’s office by about two dozen officers on motorcycles.

Both Sergeant Abbate and Trooper Felix dedicated their careers to serving the State of Nevada with exceptional commitment and pride,” the department posted on X.

Abbate, a 10-year veteran, joined the Troopers in December 2013 and was promoted to Sergeant last month. 

Felix joined in 2019 after service in the US Air Force.

“Right now during this very tragic time, the Nevada state police is going to need that love and support from the community more than ever,” Walsh said.

Dozens more law enforcement officers were seen saluting the American flag-draped bodies as they were carried inside by uniformed state troopers.

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo ordered all US flags in the state to be flown at half-staff until the troopers’ funerals.

“This is a devastating loss for Nevada law enforcement, the city of Las Vegas, and our entire state,” Lombardo said in a statement. “As we mourn these troopers, we will never forget their bravery, courage, and sacrifice.”

Williams is due to make his first court appearance Friday morning.

The death of the two Nevada state troopers comes nearly three years after another trooper was struck and killed on Interstate 15.

In 2021, trooper Micah May was killed while officers chased a carjacking suspect throughout Las Vegas and neighboring North Las Vegas.

May was hit and killed by the suspect as he put down a tire-deflating device across freeway lanes to stop the vehicle.

with Post wires