Two Nevada Highway Patrol Troopers, Sergeant Michael Abbate and Trooper Alberto Felix, Killed in DUI Crash While Assisting Driver on Las Vegas Freeway

Accident – Death – Obituary News : LAS VEGAS, NV – Tragedy struck in the early hours of Thursday, November 30th, as two Nevada Highway Patrol troopers lost their lives while on duty. The troopers were assisting a driver on the busiest freeway in the state when an intoxicated driver crashed into them, causing the fatal accident.

The fallen troopers have been identified as Sergeant Michael Abbate, badge number 304, and Trooper Alberto Felix, badge number 502. The Nevada State Police expressed their deep condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the two officers, highlighting their exceptional commitment and pride in serving the State of Nevada.

During a mid-day press conference, Las Vegas Police Undersheriff Andrew Walsh announced that the authorities had apprehended the driver responsible for the hit-and-run incident. The suspect had fled the scene after striking the officers and managed to evade the police for several hours before the car involved in the deadly crash was found at a nearby apartment complex.

In light of the tragic event, Undersheriff Walsh emphasized the importance of community support for the grieving Nevada State Police, stating that their love and backing were needed now more than ever.

The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 a.m. when the two officers stopped to check on a driver who was asleep behind the wheel on Interstate 15 near downtown Las Vegas. As they approached the vehicle, a white Chevrolet HHR struck both troopers, causing fatal injuries.

Deputy Police Chief Brandon Clarkson revealed that the driver of the Chevy did not stop after hitting the officers. It took the police about five hours to locate the unoccupied vehicle at an apartment complex. Details regarding how the suspect was found and apprehended have not been disclosed by the authorities.

The driver responsible for the tragedy has been identified as 46-year-old Jamarcus Williams. He now faces multiple charges, including reckless driving, driving under the influence, and failing to stop at the scene of a crash. Due to the hit-and-run nature of the incident, there is a sentencing enhancement that could potentially add decades to Williams’ sentence if he is convicted. His initial court appearance is scheduled for Friday, December 1st.

Confirming the devastating loss, authorities announced that one trooper was pronounced dead at the hospital, while the other tragically lost his life at the scene. The bodies of both troopers were solemnly escorted by nearly two dozen officers on motorcycles, their blue-and-red police lights flashing, as a mark of respect for the fallen heroes, to the coroner’s office.

Outside the coroner’s office, the escorting officers were joined by dozens more, all saluting as the bodies, draped in American flags, were carried inside by uniformed state troopers.

In recognition of the troopers’ sacrifice, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo issued an order for all U.S. flags in the state to be flown at half-staff until the troopers’ funerals. Governor Lombardo expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “This devastating loss has deeply affected Nevada law enforcement, the city of Las Vegas, and our entire state. As we mourn the loss of these troopers, we will forever remember their bravery, courage, and sacrifice.”

Sergeant Michael Abbate had been a part of the Nevada State Police since December 2013 and was recently promoted to the rank of Sergeant in November 2023. Trooper Alberto Felix joined the Department in January 2019, following his service in the United States Air Force.

This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face daily to ensure public safety. The loss of Sergeant Abbate and Trooper Felix has left a void in the Nevada State Police that will never be filled. Their dedication and service will be forever remembered and honored by the community they served, as well as their fellow officers..