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Horrifically, a routine traffic stop ended in a shooting after Nevada Highway Patrol troopers allege a driver pointed a gun at them on Sunday, February 8th. Thankfully, no serious injuries were reported despite the driver being rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.
According to reports, the incident began on Interstate 15. A Nevada Highway Patrol officer witnessed a vehicle fail to stop at a red light, so they began following the car.
The police officer initiated a traffic stop near the southbound Interstate 15 on-ramp at St. Rose Parkway. Officers attempted to approach the driver to request his license and registration. Upon approaching the window, officers began noticing several signs that the driver might be impaired. That’s when they asked the driver to go ahead and step out of the car. The driver refused the officer’s requests and directions.
Reports suggest that the driver started reaching for something in his car. Next, the trooper reported seeing a firearm in the suspect’s hands and pointed towards the window. In an act of self-preservation, the trooper reportedly fired his own weapon at the driver through the driver’s side window.
Despite the close-proximity shooting, the driver’s injuries were thankfully not serious. The driver was first taken to a hospital for treatment and then taken into police custody. He was transferred to the Clark County Detention Center, where he was booked.
No officers were injured in the ordeal. The officer-involved shooting will be investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department.
In Las Vegas, it is considered a very serious crime to hold a firearm towards a law enforcement officer, especially in a tense situation like a traffic stop. Considering the seriousness of the offense, this crime is always considered a felony.
Depending on the other circumstances surrounding the arrest, the incident could be levied as either a Category B or C felony. The most serious charge, assault with a deadly weapon, is a Category B felony punishable by up to six years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines. The Category C felony charge is usually levied as resisting a public officer with a firearm. This offense is punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Keep in mind that this type of charge could be considered even more serious and come with more substantial penalties if pointing the weapon is interpreted as an attempt to actually inflict harm on the officer. When that’s the case, charges can be upgraded to attempted murder or battery with a deadly weapon.
Regardless of the severity of the charge, if you’ve recently been accused of committing a violent crime in Las Vegas, then it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Here at LV Criminal Defense, our team is prepared to help you navigate your charges and defend yourself. Schedule a free phone call with us now by leaving your contact details on our online form.
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