WARREN CO., Ky. (WTVF) —
UPDATE 8:15 p.m.
Kentucky State Police identified the suspect as 51-year-old Emonnie Branch of Portland, Tenn. Branch has been charged with murder of a first responder, according to KSP.
Watch KSP officials give an update Monday evening
UPDATE 5:30 p.m.
Kentucky State Police said a suspect in the shooting that killed Trooper Hayden Phillips was taken into custody by Louisville Metro Police. KSP thanked LMPD and other law enforcement agencies that assisted in the search.
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A Kentucky State Police trooper was shot and killed Monday while patrolling Interstate 65 in Warren County, according to state officials.
Kentucky State Police identified the trooper as Hayden Phillips, Unit 369. He was assigned to Post 3 in Bowling Green and was a graduate of Cadet Class 103.
KSP Colonel Phillip Burnett Jr. said Phillips “made the ultimate sacrifice” while patrolling I-65 and said his dedication to duty and commitment to the commonwealth would not be forgotten.
“Our hearts break for Trooper Phillips’ family, loved ones, and fellow troopers,” Burnett said in a statement. He said the agency would honor Phillips’ life and support his family in the days ahead.
Gov. Andy Beshear said Phillips was shot in the line of duty and described him as a hero who dedicated himself to protecting Kentucky. Beshear also said Phillips was a devoted husband and father of three children.
Kentucky, please join Britainy and me as we pray for the family of @kystatepolice Trooper Hayden Phillips, whose life was taken today after being shot in the line of duty. Hayden was a hero who dedicated himself to protecting our commonwealth.
— Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) September 28, 2026
KSP said the shooting happened Monday on I-65 northbound near mile marker 38.
I-65 northbound is currently blocked near mile marker 38 because of the law enforcement response, according to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. Crews are setting up a detour at Exit 30, and the roadway is expected to remain blocked for about two hours.
TRAFFIC ALERT: I-65 northbound is currently blocked near the 38 mile marker due to an incident involving law enforcement.
— KYTC District 3 (@KYTCDistrict3) September 28, 2026
KYTC crews have been deployed to setup a detour at Exit 30.
Time to clear is estimated at two hours. pic.twitter.com/knC2s0r69U
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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- Carrie Sharp
