Two Las Vegas Teens Sentenced for Hit-and-Run Murder of Retired Police Chief
Two teenagers from Las Vegas have been sentenced for the fatal hit-and-run of retired California police chief Andreas Probst. The incident, which occurred in August 2023, has highlighted the tragic consequences of reckless behavior and the emotional toll on the victim’s family.
Why It Matters
This case underscores the seriousness of youth crime and its devastating impacts on families and communities. The sentences imposed on the teenagers serve as a reminder of the legal system’s response to violent acts, particularly those involving the innocent lives of community members. The emotional statements made by Probst’s family reflect the long-lasting trauma caused by such violent incidents.
Key Developments
- Jesus Ayala, 20, who was driving during the incident, received a sentence of 20 years to life in prison, plus an additional two to ten years for battery.
- Jzamir Keys, 18, was sentenced to 18 years to life.
- Probst was fatally struck while biking on August 14, 2023, and the assailants recorded the incident, joking as they fled the scene.
- Both perpetrators chose not to address the court during their sentencing.
- Probst’s family members expressed their grief and the profound impact of his loss during court proceedings.
Full Report
Details Surrounding the Incident
On August 14, 2023, Andreas Probst was riding his bicycle in Las Vegas when he was intentionally struck from behind by a stolen Hyundai Elantra driven by Ayala. Video footage captured the moment, revealing that a passenger, Keys, encouraged the act. After the collision, Probst was left critically injured on the roadside.
Sentencing and Judicial Comments
In October, both Ayala and Keys accepted separate guilty pleas. During the sentencing, Judge Jacqueline Bluth emphasized the pain inflicted upon Probst’s family, stating, “There is no excuse for what you two have done and the damage and pain you have caused.”
Family Victims’ Statements
Probst’s children addressed the court, sharing their personal anguish. Michael Probst lamented that their family would not be the same following their father’s death, while his daughter, Taylor, poignantly noted that her father’s death robbed her of significant life events, including walking her down the aisle.
Probst’s widow, Crystal, expressed her heartbreak by describing the deliberate nature of the act that shattered their family. “Andy was stolen from me in an act so cruel, so deliberate that it not only shattered my heart, but the heart of everybody who loved him,” she said, illustrating the deep emotional scars left behind.
Behavior Following the Incident
Following their arrest, Ayala reportedly exhibited no remorse, boasting about expecting a lenient sentence. Both suspects were also accused of causing injury to another cyclist prior to hitting Probst, further highlighting their reckless behavior.
Context & Previous Events
The tragic event that claimed Probst’s life is part of a larger narrative concerning youth violence and reckless driving. Many families, like Probst’s, suffer the long-term ramifications of such actions, which often ripple through their communities.
