KSP trooper recognized for saving a life during domestic violence call

MOREHEAD, Ky. – One Kentucky State Police trooper is being recognized for actions that authorities say saved a woman’s life during a domestic violence call.

According to the agency, KSP Post 8 trooper Paul Thomas has been named a finalist for the 2025 IACP/Motorola Solutions Trooper of the Year Award.

Authorities say on January 28, 2025, Rowan County dispatch received multiple 911 calls reporting a woman “had been stabbed and was being held at knifepoint” by a suspect in Morehead. Authorities say callers reported the suspect threatened to kill the victim and responding officers.

“Trooper Thomas demonstrated extraordinary courage and professionalism in an incredibly dangerous situation,” KSP post commander Bobby King said. “His quick actions and willingness to put himself in harm’s way saved a life. We are proud to see him recognized on a national level, and this honor reflects the dedication and bravery our troopers show every day.”

Authorities say Thomas and Morehead officers responded to the scene, announced themselves at the door and heard the victim asking for help.

Troopers say when “the suspect refused commands and the threat became imminent, the officers forced entry through a barricaded door on an ice-covered porch.”

Inside, authorities say they found the victim trapped in an overturned recliner, with the suspect kneeling behind her with a knife.

Troopers say the suspect ignored repeated commands and continued to restrain the victim.

Thomas then moved to pull the suspect off of the victim and spotted the knife being held at the victim’s neck, authorities say.

Recognizing the immediate threat to the victim’s life, authorities say Thomas fired two rounds, striking the suspect. Troopers say the victim was pulled to safety while Thomas rendered aid to the suspect.

EMS transported both individuals. However, authorities say the suspect later died, while the victim was treated and released.

Thomas is one of four regional finalists from across the United States selected for the 2025 award. This year’s finalists represent agencies including the Kansas Highway Patrol, Kentucky State Police, South Dakota Highway Patrol and the Virginia State Police. All four finalists were honored during the IACP State and Provincial Police Division Midyear Meeting on March 12, 2026, in Boston, Massachusetts.

“I am deeply honored to have been selected by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and Motorola Solutions as one of four finalists for the Trooper of the Year Award and to have had the opportunity to attend the Midyear Ceremony,” Thomas said. “It was truly a privilege to stand on stage alongside the other outstanding finalists who represent the very best of law enforcement. I am grateful for the recognition and proud to represent the Kentucky State Police.”