Suspect in custody after KSP trooper shot on I-65 in Kentucky

WARREN COUNTY, Ky. —

A suspect is in custody after a Kentucky State Police trooper was shot and killed in western Kentucky Monday afternoon.

KSP said the shooting happened on I-65 in Warren County. Warren County is located about two hours southwest of Louisville.

A blue alert has been issued for a “serious attack against law enforcement”. | Learn more about Blue Alerts here

Around 6:30 p.m., KSP said a suspect was arrested by LMPD and Blue Alert was canceled.

KSP said they were looking for a bluish/gray 2025 Honda Civic that was at the scene of the shooting. Another public alert said police were looking for Emonnie Branch, describing him as a black man with dreadlocks in a bun.

Police said the car had a temporary Alabama tag with the plate number: TN018596.

See a photo of the car below:

Officials said Branch was considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. Anyone with information is asked to call 911 immediately.

A photo of Branch has not been released and police have not confirmed whether Branch was the suspect arrested in Louisville.

KSP later identified the soldier as Hayden Phillips, a graduate of Cadet Class 103.

KSP released a statement:

“Today we face one of the most difficult times any agency can endure as we announce the loss of one of our own. Trooper Hayden Phillips, of Unit 369, made the ultimate sacrifice while patrolling I-65 in Warren County. He was assigned to Post 3 in Bowling Green and was a graduate of Cadet Class 103. His dedication to duty and commitment to the Commonwealth will not be forgotten.

“Our hearts break for Trooper Phillips’ family, his loved ones and his comrades as we mourn this immense loss. We will carry his memory with us, honor the life he lived and the badge he wore, and unite as an agency to support this family in the days to come.”

Governor Andy Beshear also shared a statement:

“Kentucky, please join Britainy and I as we pray for the family of Kentucky State Police Trooper Hayden Phillips, whose life was taken today after he was shot and killed in the line of duty. Hayden was a hero who dedicated himself to protecting our Commonwealth. Additionally, he was a devoted husband and loving father of three. Let’s wrap our arms around this family during this unimaginable time.”

Statement from Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman on the shooting:

“Earlier today, one of Kentucky’s finest, Trooper Hayden Phillips, made the ultimate sacrifice.

“Behind the badge was a man with family, brothers and sisters in gray and a grateful commonwealth. Detectives from the Attorney General’s Office were on scene and will continue to support our colleagues at the Kentucky State Police.”