Kentucky state trooper shot dead by a suspect in Louisville, USA

A Kentucky State Police trooper was killed in the line of duty Monday afternoon during a routine traffic stop on Interstate 65 in Warren County, prompting a multi-agency manhunt that ended with the suspect’s arrest hours later in Louisville.

Trooper Hayden Phillips, 30, Unit 369, assigned to KSP Post 3 in Bowling Green, was fatally shot by an occupant of a vehicle he stopped around 2 p.m. Central Time. The vehicle fled the scene. Phillips, a three-year veteran and graduate of Cadet Class 103, died from his injuries. He leaves behind his wife, Jordan, and their three young sons.

Kentucky State Police issued a Blue Alert for an “armed and dangerous” suspect connected to a “severe attack on law enforcement.” Authorities sought a bluish-gray 2025 Honda Civic with Alabama temporary tag TN018596, last reported traveling north on I-65 near mile marker 75.

Louisville Metro Police later located and stopped the vehicle using a Grappler device. They arrested 51-year-old Emonnie Branch (also spelled Emonni in some reports) of Portland, Tennessee. Branch faces a charge of murder of a peace officer or first responder and is expected to be transported to Warren County to face state charges. He reportedly had an active warrant out of Tennessee for a probation violation.

In a statement, KSP Commissioner Col. Phillip Burnett Jr. said: “Today, we face one of the most difficult moments an agency can endure as we announce the loss of one of our own. Trooper Hayden Phillips, Unit 369, made the ultimate sacrifice while patrolling I-65 in Warren County. … His dedication to duty and commitment to the commonwealth will not be forgotten.” The agency later posted a tribute: “Rest Easy U/369. We have it from here.”

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear called Phillips a hero and a devoted husband and father, urging residents to support the family. Officials said memorial arrangements will be announced through KSP Post 3. The investigation continues.