Kentucky Trooper Shot, Killed at Traffic Stop
Kentucky State Police report a manhunt is underway in Lyon County after a trooper was shot and killed overnight. The fallen trooper is identified as Trooper Cameron Ponder, 31. He died of his injuries at a local hospital.
Trooper Joseph Cameron Ponder (Photo: Kentucky State Police)
The suspect in the fatal shooting of a Kentucky State Police trooper is in custody, said Judge Executive Wade White of Lyon County, Ky.
Joseph Thomas Johnson-Shanks, 25, of Missouri, was wanted after his alleged involvement in a high-speed chase and killing of Trooper Joseph Cameron Ponder, 31.
Joseph Thomas Johnson-Shanks, 25, is suspected in the killing of Trooper Joseph Cameron Ponder. (Photo: Lyon County Judge Executive)
Trooper Ponder was conducting a traffic stop on Johnson-Shanks' vehicle on I-24 around 10:20 p.m. on Sunday.
After talking with the trooper, the Johnson-Shanks then drove away.
A 10-mile chase ended with the suspect stopping abruptly near mile marker 49, causing Ponder's cruiser to run into the rear of the suspect's vehicle, KFVS TV reports.
KSP reports that is when the suspect allegedly fired shots at the police cruiser, striking the hood, windshield and Trooper Ponder multiple times.
The suspect abandoned his vehicle on the median and ran away.
More Patrol
Streamlight to Showcase Newest Lighting Products at National Safety Council’s Safety Congress & Expo 2026
Streamlight will showcase its latest lights, including the Portable Scene Light III and the LiteBox 1Million, at the 2026 National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo.
Read More →
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games Set for Perth, Australia
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) will take place in Perth, Western Australia, from Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 21, 2027.
Read More →
5.11 Partners with National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to Support #ForThe343
5.11 has joined the nationwide movement honoring the 343 New York City Fire Department firefighters lost on Sept. 11, 2001.
Read More →
Team Wendy Announces Title Sponsorship of the Jorge Pastore Foundation
Team Wendy’s 3-year partnership with the Jorge Pastore Foundation expands access to programs that strengthen those who serve.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum Hosting 9/11 25th-Year Commemoration Ceremony
The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum is hosting a 9/11 25th Year Commemoration Ceremony on Sept. 11 at 4 p.m.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Announces June 2026 Officers of the Month
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) named 15 officers of the Chico Police Department (California) as the Officers of the Month for June 2026 for their roles in responding to an active-shooter incident at a public library.
Read More →
Team Wendy App Creates New Digital Hub for Helmet Owners
The Team Wendy Community App provides one location for warranty registration, size-fit tools, product updates, and community connection. For helmet owners, the new app creates a simpler path to the information and tools that matter most.
Read More →
PositionPTT & Pryme Combine Communication Technologies to Deliver Distracted Driving Compliance
Pryme Radio Accessories and hardware/software maker PositionPTT join forces to advance hands-free communications and ensure Department of Transportation compliance using an integrated system of push-to-talk platforms, devices, and audio equipment.
Read More →
Justice Department Releases $25M in Law Enforcement Grants & Resources
The Office of Community Oriented Policing Services has just released $25 million in new grant Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support law enforcement. The recently released NOFOs include the Safer Outcomes: Enhancing Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement Program and other grant programs.
Read More →
What Makes a Laptop Rugged or Fully Rugged?
What separates a rugged laptop from a fully rugged one? In this video, two Panasonic Connect experts explain the military testing, IP ratings, durability standards, and real-world features that help law enforcement officers rely on their computers in any environment.
Read More →