Tommy Velasco Obituary, Laurel County, KY Shooting Death – 40-Year-Old Killed in Trooper-Involved Shooting After I-75 Traffic Stop in Kentucky
Tommy Velasco, a 40-year-old man from Jeffersonville, Kentucky, died after a confrontation with a Kentucky State Police trooper during a traffic stop on Interstate 75 in Laurel County.
The fatal shooting occurred at approximately 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, near mile marker 46 on southbound I-75 in the East Bernstadt community, according to Kentucky State Police.
In a preliminary account, authorities said a trooper stopped a vehicle driven by Velasco. During the traffic stop, Velasco exited the vehicle and was asked to complete field sobriety tests. Police reported that he displayed signs of impairment.
Foot Chase and Physical Altercation
According to the preliminary investigation, Velasco ran from the scene on foot as the trooper attempted to take him into custody.
The trooper pursued him and deployed a Taser, but police said it had limited effect. A physical altercation then occurred between the two.
During the confrontation, the trooper discharged an agency-issued pistol, fatally wounding Velasco.
Authorities have not released further details about the physical struggle or the circumstances immediately preceding the gunfire.
Kentucky State Police Investigate Fatal Shooting
The Kentucky State Police Critical Incident Response Team was requested to investigate the shooting. The agency said it would withhold additional details until important witnesses had been interviewed and relevant evidence gathered.
The investigation remains ongoing. The available preliminary account does not establish whether the use of deadly force was justified, and no final investigative findings have been announced.
Velasco’s death has drawn attention to the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop and the fatal encounter on I-75. Further information about his personal life, family tributes and funeral arrangements should be included only when confirmed by relatives or an authorised source.
This article may be updated as investigators release additional verified information.