Kentucky State Police said Trooper Hayden Phillips was fatally shot while patrolling Interstate 65 near the 38‑mile marker in Warren County on Sept. 28, 2026. Authorities issued an alert for a bluish‑gray 2025 Honda Civic and warned the suspect was "armed and dangerous." After an hourslong manhunt, Louisville police took a suspect into custody. State officials paid tribute to Phillips as investigators continue to gather details.
Kentucky Trooper Hayden Phillips Fatally Shot While Patrolling I‑65; Suspect Apprehended
Kentucky state trooper killed in shooting while patrolling highway: Police
An on‑duty Kentucky state trooper was fatally shot while patrolling Interstate 65 in Warren County on Monday, Sept. 28, 2026, authorities said. The attack occurred near the 38‑mile marker; investigators have not released additional details about the circumstances.
WBKO - PHOTO: Authorities respond to the scene where a Kentucky state trooper was shot in Warren County, Kentucky, on Sept. 28, 2026.
State police issued an alert seeking a bluish‑gray 2025 Honda Civic and warned the public that the suspect was considered "armed and dangerous." After an hourslong manhunt, Louisville police took a suspect into custody Monday evening and state police canceled the vehicle alert.
Kentucky State Police - PHOTO: Kentucky State Police said it is looking for this Honda Civic in connection with the deadly shooting of a state trooper on Sept. 28, 2026.
Victim Identified
Kentucky State Police identified the trooper who was killed as Trooper Hayden Phillips. The agency released a photo as it confirmed Phillips' death and described the loss as devastating to the department.
Kentucky State Police - PHOTO: Kentucky State Trooper Hayden Phillips.
"Today, we face one of the most difficult moments an agency can endure as we announce the loss of one of our own," Kentucky State Police Col. Phillip Burnett Jr. said. "His dedication to duty and commitment to the commonwealth will not be forgotten."
Official Response
Gov. Andy Beshear paid tribute to Phillips, calling him a hero and noting his role as a husband and father of three. "Let us wrap our arms around this family during this unimaginable time," Beshear said in a social media statement.
Investigation Underway
Authorities secured the scene in Warren County while investigators collected evidence. State police and local law enforcement are continuing their investigation; no other suspects or charges have been publicly announced and officials said they will release more information as it becomes available.
What We Know: The shooting occurred Sept. 28, 2026, on I‑65 near mile marker 38 in Warren County. A suspect vehicle—described as a bluish‑gray 2025 Honda Civic—was sought, and a suspect was later apprehended by Louisville police after an hourslong search. The deceased trooper has been identified as Hayden Phillips.
Help us improve.
