Trooper and Deputy Ambushed Near Yellowjack Inn: Suspect Identified, Shot, Arrested, and Sentenced

"Law Enforcement on scene at the Yellowjack"

BLAINE COUNTY, SAN ANDREAS — A routine suspicious activity call erupted into a harrowing scene of violence on the evening of May 8th, leaving two law enforcement officers hospitalized and a suspect behind bars for nearly 50 years.

At approximately 9:00 PM, Master Trooper Kyle Padget of the San Andreas Highway Patrol (SAHP) and Deputy III Zack Hoffman of the Blaine County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call near the Yellowjack Inn regarding a possible stolen road sign. Deputy Hoffman arrived first and, while scanning the area, was approached by a shirtless male asking for a ride. Master Trooper Padget arrived shortly after and assisted with the encounter.

The officers moved the scene to the Yellowjack parking lot for safety—but within moments, Trooper Padget was found on the ground, having been attacked, as the suspect fled across Panorama Drive. Deputy Hoffman radioed for help as multiple units converged on the scene.

The suspect was tracked to a nearby metal structure, where a second violent confrontation unfolded. As SAHP Senior Sergeant Andrew Murphy, Senior Deputy Briley Houston, and Master Deputy Adam Campbell began to clear the building, the suspect lunged from a shipping container and engaged Deputy Houston in a brutal fight. Producing a knife, the suspect stabbed the deputy after knocking him to the ground.

Senior Sergeant Murphy located the suspect in the act of stabbing Deputy Houston and discharged his service weapon, striking the attacker three times and ending the assault.

Immediate medical aid was administered to all three injured parties. Master Trooper Padget and Deputy Houston were transported to Sandy Shores Medical Center, both now in recovery. The suspect, later identified as Rex Vandal, also received emergency treatment before being taken into custody.

In an unexpected twist, Vandal attempted to flee the hospital while still in handcuffs but was quickly apprehended by SAHP Lieutenant Carter Vaught.

Vandal now faces two felony counts of Aggravated Attempted Second Degree Murder and one misdemeanor count of Fleeing and Eluding. He has been sentenced to 599 months in Bolingbroke Penitentiary.

SAHP Public Relations Officer Andrew Murphy confirmed the attack is one of the most violent ambushes on state law enforcement in recent memory. Despite the injuries, all involved officers are expected to survive, thanks to the swift response and courage of their fellow troopers and deputies. For continued coverage on this developing story and exclusive interviews with those involved, stay with The Vinewood Journal.