Two Nevada Highway Patrol troopers were tragically killed in Las Vegas when a driver under the influence crashed into them while they were assisting a driver. The suspect, identified as Jamarcus Williams, fled the scene but was later arrested. The fallen heroes have been identified as Sergeant Michael Abbate and Trooper Alberto Felix. Law Enforcement Today reported
LAS VEGAS, NV – Tragedy struck in the early morning hours of Thursday, November 30th, as two dedicated Nevada Highway Patrol troopers lost their lives while bravely serving their duty. The heartbreaking incident occurred on the state’s busiest freeway when a driver, suspected to be under the influence, crashed into the troopers while they were assisting a stranded motorist.
The fallen troopers have been identified as Sergeant Michael Abbate, badge 304, and Trooper Alberto Felix, badge 502. The Nevada State Police released a heartfelt statement expressing their condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of these fallen heroes. Both Sergeant Abbate and Trooper Felix had devoted their careers to serving the State of Nevada with exceptional commitment and pride.
During a mid-day news conference, Las Vegas Police Undersheriff Andrew Walsh revealed that the authorities had apprehended the driver who fled the scene after striking the two officers. The suspect managed to elude the police for several hours, but the car involved in the hit-and-run was eventually located at a nearby apartment complex.
Undersheriff Walsh emphasized the importance of community support during this tragic time, stating that the Nevada State Police will need the love and backing of the community now more than ever.
The incident occurred around 3:30 a.m. when the two officers stopped to check on a driver found asleep behind the wheel on Interstate 15 near downtown Las Vegas. While attending to the motorist, a white Chevrolet HHR slammed into both troopers, causing their untimely deaths.
Deputy Police Chief Brandon Clarkson revealed that the driver of the Chevy did not stop after striking the officers. Approximately five hours later, the vehicle was discovered abandoned at an apartment complex. The details of how the suspect was located and apprehended were not disclosed by the authorities.
The driver responsible for this tragic event has been identified as 46-year-old Jamarcus Williams. He is facing multiple charges, including reckless driving, driving under the influence (DUI), and leaving the scene of a crash. Due to the hit-and-run resulting in the loss of two lives, Williams may face a sentencing enhancement that could significantly extend his sentence if convicted. His first court appearance is scheduled for Friday, December 1st.
Authorities confirmed that one trooper was pronounced dead at the hospital, while the other tragically lost his life at the scene. The fallen troopers were honored by a procession of nearly two dozen officers on motorcycles with flashing blue-and-red police lights as their bodies were respectfully transported to the coroner’s office.
At the coroner’s office, the officers escorting the troopers’ bodies were joined by dozens more in paying their respects. They saluted as the bodies, draped in American flags, were carried inside by uniformed state troopers.
In response to this devastating loss, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo ordered that all U.S. flags in the state be flown at half-staff until the troopers’ funerals. In a statement, he expressed his deep sorrow and emphasized that the bravery, courage, and sacrifice of these troopers will never be forgotten.
According to the Nevada State Police, Sergeant Abbate joined the Department in December 2013 and was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant in November 2023. Trooper Felix joined the Department in January 2019, following his service in the United States Air Force..