Lexington officer remains ‘in critical condition’ after injury during traffic stop

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Authorities are providing an update after a Lexington officer was seriously injured during a traffic stop on Tuesday.

According to the Lexington Police Department, on Tuesday around 10:43 p.m., officer Kevin Van Wert conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for moving violations at a Meijer Gas Station on Ruccio Way.

As he made contact with the vehicle, authorities say the driver accelerated, dragging the officer into a light pole and throwing him to the ground.

The driver then fled the scene at a high rate of speed, and following a brief pursuit, police were able to detain the driver, according to authorities.

Thirty-one-year-old Nageeb Mufallah was arrested and charged with first-degree assault (police officer), first-degree wanton endnagerment of a police officer, first-degree criminal mischief, resisting arrest, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, first-degree fleeing or evading police and leaving the scene of an accident/failure to render aid/assist with death or serious physical injury, along with unrelated warrants.

He currently remains at the Fayette County Detention Center.

Van Wert was transported to a local hospital, where he remains in critical condition with serious injuries.

Van Wert is 29 years old and has been with the Lexington Police Department since August of 2024. He graduated from the Training Academy in March of 2025, according to the department.

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing.