Traffic Stop Escalates into Violent Encounter

A routine traffic stop in Lenoir City, Tennessee, escalated into a dangerous confrontation when Eugenio Abraham Solis-Klarks, a Guatemalan national living illegally in the United States, opened fire on law enforcement officers. The incident occurred on January 12, when Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Morgan Snyder pulled Solis-Klarks over for driving 97 mph on Interstate 75. Upon being stopped, Solis-Klarks presented a Guatemalan consular ID card, prompting Trooper Snyder to call for backup.

High-Speed Chase and Gunfire Exchange

As additional troopers Paul Dubroc and Justic Hasse arrived, Solis-Klarks fled the scene, leading officers on a high-speed chase exceeding 100 mph into Knox County. The pursuit took a dangerous turn when Solis-Klarks abruptly changed lanes to take an exit ramp. Only Trooper Dubroc managed to safely follow him. The chase ended when Solis-Klarks lost control of his vehicle. In a tense standoff, Solis-Klarks retrieved an assault rifle and exchanged gunfire with Trooper Dubroc before attempting to flee on foot.

Conviction and Sentencing

Solis-Klarks was convicted of first-degree attempted murder and sentenced to 18 years in prison without parole. The Knox County District Attorney General’s Office announced the conviction, highlighting the professionalism of the Tennessee Highway Patrol and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation in bringing Solis-Klarks to justice.

Broader Implications and Legal Context

This case underscores the challenges faced by Tennessee law enforcement amid rising crime rates involving illegal immigrants. A state law enacted in 2024 mandates that local agencies comply with ICE detainer requests, reflecting broader efforts to address immigration-related crime. In Nashville alone, ICE detainer requests have surged, with significant numbers of individuals being detained each month.

Future Deportation Uncertain

It remains unclear whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will pursue deportation proceedings against Solis-Klarks. Fox News Digital has reached out to ICE for further comment on the matter.