WARREN COUNTY, Ky. — A massive manhunt is underway across Kentucky and beyond following the fatal shooting of a Kentucky State Police (KSP) trooper on Interstate 65 in Warren County.
KSP officials confirmed that Trooper Hayden Phillips was shot and killed while on patrol earlier today. Phillips, who was assigned to Post 3 in Bowling Green, was a relatively new member of the force, having graduated as part of Cadet Class 103 on August 11, 2023.
“Our hearts break for Trooper Phillips’ family, loved ones, and fellow troopers as we grieve this tremendous loss,” said KSP Commissioner Col. Phillip Burnett, Jr. in a statement released this afternoon. “We will carry his memory with us, honor the life he lived and the badge he wore, and stand together as an agency to support his family in the days ahead.”
The fatal incident occurred near mile marker 38, in the vicinity of the popular Buc-ee’s travel center. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has closed a significant stretch of the highway, forcing motorists to detour at exit 30. Authorities expect the scene to remain restricted for several hours as a multi-agency investigation continues.
In response to the tragedy, KSP has issued a “Blue Alert,” a public emergency notification used when a law enforcement officer has been killed or seriously injured in the line of duty and the suspect remains at large. Police are actively searching for a bluish-gray Honda Civic bearing Alabama license plate number TN018596. The vehicle was reportedly present at the scene of the shooting. Law enforcement officials warn that the suspect is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.
The investigation has triggered a significant regional response. Flight radar data indicates that police helicopters from the Nashville Metro Police, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Louisville Metro Police, and KSP are currently patrolling the corridor between Elizabethtown and Bowling Green. Reports from the scene describe an overwhelming police presence, with law enforcement units stationed at various intervals along the interstate.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his grief on social media, honoring the fallen trooper’s service. “Kentucky, please join Britainy and me as we pray for the family of Trooper Hayden Phillips, whose life was taken today after being shot in the line of duty,” the governor wrote. “Hayden was a hero who dedicated himself to protecting our commonwealth.”
As the search for the suspect intensifies, KSP is urging the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any sightings of the suspect vehicle to local authorities.
This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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