WARREN COUNTY, Ky. (LEX NEWS) — The suspect in a Monday afternoon shooting on I-65 that left a Kentucky State Police trooper dead has been charged with first degree murder of a first responder, the agency confirmed in a press conference Monday evening.
According to KSP, Trooper Hayden Phillips performed a traffic stop on a vehicle in Warren County around 2 p.m. During that stop, Trooper Hayden Philips was shot and killed and the vehicle fled, starting an "exhaustive search" by multiple agencies.
The suspect, identified as Emonnie Branch, 51, of Portland, Tennessee, was later arrested by Louisville Metro Police on Dixie Highway.
Post 3 Public Affairs Officer Trooper Katan Parker thanked the community for their support during this difficult time, and asked the community to keep both the agency and Phillips' family in their thoughts and prayers.
"Hayden was our brother...I believe I can speak for everyone at Post 3 when I say that Hayden was special, he was. We're going to miss him, we sure are, we're gonna miss him so much." Parker said.
VIDEO FROM THE SCENE: I-65 remains closed as investigation into fatal KSP shooting continues
"Our hearts break for Trooper Philips' family, loved ones, and fellow troopers as we grieve this tremendous loss. 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 this family in the days ahead," KSP said in a statement.
— KY State Police (@kystatepolice) September 28, 2026
KSP released a BLUE ALERT following the shooting as officers searched for the vehicle wanted in connection, described as a blueish-gray Honda Civic with a temporary Alabama tag #TN01859. That alert has now been canceled.
"Our hearts break for Trooper Philips' family, loved ones, and fellow troopers as we grieve this tremendous loss. 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 this family in the days ahead," KSP said in a statement.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear released a statement following the fatal shooting.
"Kentucky, please join Britainy and me as we pray for the family of Kentucky State Police 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. Even more, he was a devoted husband and loving father to three children. Let us wrap our arms around this family during this unimaginable time."
Attorney General Russell Coleman also released a statement.
"Earlier today one of Kentucky's Finest, Trooper Hayden Phillips, made the ultimate sacrifice.
Behind the badge was a man with a family, brothers and sisters in gray, and a grateful Commonwealth. Detectives from the AG's Office were on the scene and will continue to support our Kentucky State Police colleagues."
I-65 northbound in Warren County near the 39 mile marker remains shut down as officers continue to process the scene. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area and are being detoured at Exit 30.
This is a developing story, so check back with LEX18.com for updates. Email the LEX18 Newsroom if you have info, photos or videos to share.
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