Source Las Vegas Sun
Two troopers who were assisting a motorist this morning in Las Vegas were hit by a vehicle and killed, according to Nevada State Police.
The vehicle fled the scene but was later located, along with the suspected driver, authorities said.
Interstate 15 North at Charleston Boulevard and ramps from U.S. 95 to I-15 North were closed, police said. Motorists were advised to avoid the area.
"Our prayers are with the families and loved ones of our fallen troopers," state police said in a statement.
Metro Police were investigating the incident, authorities said.
The troopers were struck about 3:20 a.m. while assisting a driver who appeared to have fallen asleep in their vehicle and was pulled over on the interstate near D Street, Metro Police Deputy Chief Branden Clarkson said.
The troopers, whose names were not released, were hit by a white Chevrolet HHR, which fled the scene, Clarkson said.
One trooper was declared dead at the scene, and the other was transported to University Medical Center, where he later died, Clarkson said. He said both were husbands with children.
After conducting a street-by-street search, authorities located an unoccupied HHR matching the description of the suspect vehicle about 8 a.m. near J and Monroe streets, Clarkson said.
The suspected driver was located a short time later and taken into custody, Clarkson said. Citing the open investigation, Clarkson did not name the suspect.
More details were expected to be released throughout the day, Clarkson said.
"Being a public servant and serving this community, being a first responder in this valley is something that we all enjoy," Clark County Undersheriff Andrew Walsh said at a news briefing. "And 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."
Clarkson said he was heartened by the community's outpouring of support, especially in the midst of the holiday season.
Gov. Joe Lombardo issued a statement saying he was "profoundly saddened by the deaths of two of our brave Nevada State troopers, who were killed early this morning in Las Vegas."
"This is a devastating loss for Nevada law enforcement, the city of Las Vegas, and our entire state," he said. "As we mourn these troopers, we will never forget their bravery, courage and sacrifice."
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