Tommy Velasco Obituary: 40-Year-Old Fatally Shot by Kentucky State Police Trooper During I-75 Traffic Stop in Laurel County
A 40-year-old man from Jeffersonville, Kentucky, died after being shot by a Kentucky State Police trooper during a traffic stop on Interstate 75 South in Laurel County on Monday evening, November 9, 2026. Kentucky State Police identified the man as Tommy Velasco, 40. The shooting occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. near mile marker 46 in the East Bernstadt community.
According to the preliminary account released by KSP, a trooper stopped a vehicle driven by Velasco. After Velasco exited the vehicle, the trooper administered field sobriety tests. Police said he displayed signs of impairment.
KSP reported that when the trooper attempted to take Velasco into custody, he fled on foot. The trooper pursued him and deployed a Taser, which authorities said had limited effect.
A physical altercation followed. During the confrontation, the trooper discharged an agency-issued firearm, fatally wounding Velasco.
The Kentucky State Police Critical Incident Response Team was requested to investigate the shooting. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities said additional details would be released when key witnesses have been interviewed and relevant evidence gathered.
The incident has raised questions surrounding the circumstances of the fatal encounter, which investigators are working to establish.
Velasco’s death leaves family members, friends, and others who knew him mourning his loss. Heartfelt condolences go out to his loved ones during this difficult time.
