Tommy Velasco, a 40-year-old resident of Jeffersonville, Kentucky, died on November 9, 2026, after a confrontation with a Kentucky State Police trooper along Interstate 75 in Laurel County.
The fatal encounter occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. near mile marker 46 on the southbound side of the highway, close to the East Bernstadt community. According to Kentucky State Police, the incident began when a trooper stopped a vehicle driven by Velasco.
Events Leading to the Shooting
Police said Velasco stepped out of his vehicle during the traffic stop and was subjected to field sobriety testing. The trooper reportedly observed signs of impairment.
Authorities stated that Velasco ran away as the trooper attempted to take him into custody, leading to a foot pursuit.
During the chase, the trooper used a Taser. However, officials said the device had limited effectiveness. A physical confrontation followed, during which the trooper fired an agency-issued firearm and struck Velasco.
He later died from his injuries.
State Police Investigate the Incident
The Kentucky State Police Critical Incident Response Team has taken responsibility for investigating the shooting.
Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the encounter, including the pursuit, the attempted use of the Taser and the firearm discharge. Further findings have not been released in the supplied report.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information is expected as authorities continue reviewing the incident.
Remembering Tommy Velasco
Velasco’s death has drawn attention to a fatal encounter that began with a traffic stop and ended with a deadly shooting. He was 40 years old and lived in Jeffersonville, Kentucky.
The available report does not provide further details about his family, occupation, personal history or plans for a funeral service.
Obituary: Tommy Velasco, 40, of Jeffersonville, Kentucky, died on November 9, 2026, following a shooting involving a Kentucky State Police trooper in Laurel County.
Cause of Death: Gunshot injuries sustained during the encounter with the trooper.
Funeral Arrangements: No funeral or memorial service information has been provided.
Disclaimer: The account of the incident is based on the information attributed to Kentucky State Police in the supplied report. The shooting remains under investigation, and the full circumstances have not yet been established.