In a heart-wrenching incident on Thursday morning, two Nevada state troopers, Sgt. Michael Abbate and Trooper Alberto Felix, lost their lives in a tragic hit-and-run on Interstate 15 in Las Vegas. The officers were struck by an impaired driver while assisting a seemingly asleep motorist, leaving the community in shock.
The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. when the troopers had stopped to check on a driver who appeared to be sleeping behind the wheel. A white Chevrolet HHR struck both officers, and the driver fled the scene. The suspect, identified as Jemarcus Williams, 46, was later apprehended at an apartment complex.
The impact of the crash resulted in one trooper being pronounced dead at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries at a hospital. The tragedy unfolded as Williams faces charges of reckless driving, DUI, and failing to stop at the scene of the crash. The severity of the charges could lead to significant penalties if he is convicted.
Video footage released by the police department depicted the somber scene as the bodies of the troopers were escorted to the coroner's office by a procession of officers on motorcycles, their lights flashing in tribute. Governor Joe Lombardo expressed profound sadness, ordering all U.S. flags in Nevada to be flown at half-staff until the troopers' funerals.
The Nevada Highway Patrol announces with deep sorrow the loss of two State Troopers in the line of duty on November 30, 2023. pic.twitter.com/JUHo2QPjnb
— Nevada State Police (@NVStatePolice) December 1, 2023
This heartbreaking incident marks the second time in recent memory that a state trooper has lost their life on I-15. In 2021, Trooper Micah May was struck and killed during the pursuit of a stolen vehicle in the same area.
The Nevada Highway Patrol released a statement mourning the loss of Sgt. Abbate and Trooper Felix, highlighting their dedicated service to the state. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, with details on memorial services to be shared at a later date.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, the focus remains on supporting the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen troopers. The tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face while protecting and serving their communities.
As the community grapples with this devastating loss, the focus remains on supporting the families, friends, and colleagues of the fallen troopers. The tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face while protecting and serving their communities.