High Stakes Encounter: Las Vegas Man Charged with Attempted Murder After Allegedly Firing at Police Officer

A dramatic early morning encounter in Las Vegas has led to a 34-year-old man facing serious charges, including attempted murder, after he allegedly fired a handgun directly at a police officer. The terrifying incident, which unfolded near the bustling intersection of Boulder Highway and Tropicana Avenue, saw an officer narrowly escape harm, prompting a swift and decisive response from law enforcement.

Rashad Ahmad Terry, identified as the suspect, is now in custody, charged with attempted murder with a deadly weapon, discharging a firearm at an occupied vehicle, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and resisting arrest.

Authorities have confirmed that the shooting was a direct attack, with police stating the officer was intentionally targeted.

The chain of events began shortly after midnight on Thursday when a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) officer initiated a routine traffic stop. The officer had observed Terry driving without headlights, a minor violation that quickly escalated into a life-threatening situation.

As the stop progressed, Terry allegedly produced a handgun and discharged it in the direction of the officer. Miraculously, the officer remained unharmed, a testament to quick thinking and perhaps a stroke of luck.

Following the harrowing exchange, Terry attempted to flee the scene on foot. However, his escape was short-lived.

LVMPD officers, responding rapidly to the critical incident, located and apprehended him in a nearby parking lot shortly after the shooting. A handgun, believed to be the weapon used in the alleged attack, was recovered by investigators.

This incident marks a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement daily.

It is the 22nd officer-involved shooting for the LVMPD in 2024. More specifically, it is the ninth where a suspect was either hit or killed, and the fourth instance this year where an officer was targeted but, thankfully, not injured. The officer involved in this specific event has been placed on paid administrative leave, a standard procedure following such critical incidents, allowing for a thorough review and psychological support.

Terry made his initial appearance in Las Vegas Justice Court, facing the array of severe charges.

While his bail was set at $200,000, he is currently being held without bail on the count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, underscoring the gravity of his alleged actions. The community awaits further developments as the legal proceedings unfold in this high-stakes case.