In a tragic incident earlier this month, Officer Colton Pulsipher of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) was killed in a collision caused by Fernando Jimenez-Jimenez, a 31-year-old Mexican citizen who was in the United States illegally, according to federal officials.
The fatal crash occurred on December 12 when Jimenez-Jimenez drove his Ford F150 the wrong way on the northbound lanes of Interstate 15. This resulted in a head-on collision with Officer Pulsipher’s Toyota Corolla. Both men died as a result of the accident, as reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
Immigration records reveal that Jimenez-Jimenez had entered the United States twice in 2019, each time resulting in expedited removal back to Mexico. His last attempt to gain admission was in January 2020 at Brownsville, Texas. An immigration judge ordered his deportation in December 2021, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
At the time of the crash, Nevada State Police discovered containers of alcohol and marijuana in Jimenez-Jimenez’s vehicle. Toxicology reports to determine his level of intoxication are still pending.
Officer Pulsipher, who had been with the LVMPD since 2017, was assigned to the tourist safety division within the traffic bureau. He was returning home from his shift when the fatal collision occurred. The department highlighted his dedication, stating, “He worked tirelessly to protect and serve our community.”
The passing of Officer Pulsipher, a dedicated public servant, has had a profound impact. He leaves behind a wife and three young children. His memorial service was held on December 18 in Moapa, where he resided. The LVMPD honored him on social media, saying, “Officer Pulsipher served with courage, integrity, and dedication, always putting the safety of others before his own. Rest easy, Officer Pulsipher. We’ve got it from here.”
This incident has not only left a family in mourning but also brought attention to issues surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety on U.S. roads. The LVMPD and the community are deeply affected by the loss of a committed officer whose life was tragically cut short by this preventable accident. As the investigation continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent road safety measures and immigration policies to prevent such devastating events.
