North Las Vegas police have identified Officer Jason Roscow, 46, as the officer killed in a deadly shootout on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Roscow, a 17-year veteran of the North Las Vegas Police Department (NLVPD), was shot multiple times while responding to reports of an armed individual near Lone Mountain Road and Camino Al Norte.
NLVPD police officers responded around 2:13 p.m. to reports of a man pointing a gun at someone. Upon arrival, they attempted to engage the suspect, later identified as 25-year-old Alexander Andre Mathis, but he ignored their commands and fled.
Mathis was later confronted by Officer Roscow, who ordered him to show his hands after noticing he was armed. Instead of complying, Mathis advanced toward the officer, sparking an exchange of gunfire. Although Roscow sustained multiple gunshot wounds, he managed to shoot Mathis before collapsing.
Before paramedics arrived, officers administered emergency aid to both Roscow and Mathis. Roscow was rushed to UMC Trauma Center in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries despite medical intervention. Mathis was also transported to the trauma center, where he was later pronounced dead.
Chief of Police Jacqueline Gravatt expressed deep sorrow over the loss, calling Roscow “one of North Las Vegas’s finest.” She emphasized that officers take on this profession to protect and serve despite its dangers. Gravatt extended thoughts and prayers to Roscow’s family, friends, and fellow officers, acknowledging the immense loss felt by the department.
Roscow, a father of two young boys, dedicated his career to public service. He joined the NLVPD on June 18, 2007. He worked in multiple divisions, including the Traffic Division, where he was awarded the Exemplary Service Award for accomplishments under challenging conditions. In February 2024, he returned to Patrol Operations, where he served until his death.
NLVPD officials described Roscow as a “valued member of our law enforcement family,” highlighting his dedication and resilience in difficult situations. They noted that his commitment earned him the respect of colleagues and the community, remembering him as an officer, mentor, and friend.
The shooting occurred in a residential neighborhood near Craig Ranch Park. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, with one resident describing the incident as a “western shootout.”
Law enforcement officials held a procession on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, to transport Roscow’s body from the Clark County coroner’s office to Palm Downtown Mortuary and Cemetery. A candlelight vigil in his honor was held Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Liberty Park in North Las Vegas.
His funeral will be held at Central Christian Church, with burial in his hometown of Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. The NLVPD is working closely with his family to provide support.
Mathis’ family expressed disbelief over his involvement, with his sister, Sam White, saying it “seemed very out of character.” She was shocked to learn he had a gun, insisting, “That’s not my brother,” and was struggling to reconcile the news with the person she knew.
Mathis’ mother, Tina Lottie, described him as a free-spirited individual who loved dancing with family. She shared that he preferred to be homeless and often slept in parks like Craig Ranch or El Camino rather than at home but was always welcome to return home. “He hangs out at the park,” she said, explaining that he was constantly coming and going, rarely staying in one place for long.
Latrice Fradiue, Mathis’ aunt, commented on the shared grief between both families. “Two families lost a lot, lost family members,” Fradiue said. “You know, both families hurt, you know, and we all just don’t know what happened.”
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, with the NLVPD pledging to honor Roscow’s memory and ensure his sacrifice is never forgotten. “His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his legacy of service and bravery will continue to inspire us all,” the department stated.