Published on: December 24, 2024, 08:22h. 

Last updated: December 24, 2024, 08:25h.

The driver who drove the wrong way on I-15, causing the death of a Nevada police officer and himself, was found to be in the United States illegally, as per reports.

Both Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) Officer Colton Pulsipher and the other driver, Fernando Jimenez, lost their lives in the collision that occurred on December 12.

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) informed Nevada news outlets that Jimenez illegally entered the U.S. twice in 2019 and was instructed to return to Mexico on both occasions.

Although he applied for U.S. citizenship in 2020, an immigration judge in Texas ruled that he should leave the country.

Highway Collision

Jimenez, aged 31, was driving in the wrong direction on the northbound lanes of the highway when his Ford F-150 truck collided head-on with a car driven by Pulsipher, aged 29, near Nevada’s Valley of Fire State Park around 12:30 a.m.

Pulsipher, who had just finished his shift and was off-duty, was on his way home in his personal vehicle when the accident occurred on I-15.

Following the crash, police searched Jimenez’s truck and discovered “several containers of alcohol and marijuana packages,” according to Las Vegas TV station KLAS.

It is unknown whether he was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the collision. Toxicology test results conducted by the Clark County coroner’s office are still pending.

Support for Officer’s Family

Behind the Blue (BTB), an organization that aids the families of fallen and injured officers, is raising funds online for Pulsipher’s wife, Ashlee, and their three children – Carlee (5), Brett (2), and Jonny (11 months).

We are united as a community to assist Ashlee and her children,” BTB stated on an online fundraising page. “Your donations will help with immediate expenses and provide financial relief as they cope with this heartbreaking new chapter…This tragic loss has left his family mourning and in need of our assistance during this challenging period.

Jimenez’s Life in Mexico

Jimenez, survived by his wife and four children, was spoken of fondly by a relative.

“He was a kind man. He never sought or caused any trouble. He was a very good person,” said Jimenez’s brother-in-law, Marcelino Heredia Hernandez, to Las Vegas TV station KSNV.

While in Mexico, Jimenez resided in the state of Chiapas, known for its poverty.

“In Chiapas, there is a lot of poverty and violence. He came here with hopes of providing his family with a better life,” Hernandez remarked.