Booing erupted during a moment intended to honor a fallen police officer at a speech by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo on Wednesday, leaving the governor visibly angered.
The incident occurred at the Red Rock Resort on the outskirts of Las Vegas, ahead of a rally hosted by former President Donald Trump. As Governor Lombardo, a Republican, began a moment of silence for Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Officer Austin 'Zade' Abdelnabi, 30, an audience member loudly jeered.
"No, no, we're not booing," Lombardo stated, addressing the disruption. "He's the officer that passed away here recently." He then reiterated his request for a moment of silence, which proceeded as planned.
Officer Abdelnabi, a Marine Corps veteran, died in the line of duty on Tuesday. He was one of the first officers to respond to a report of an intoxicated man armed with a gun in east Las Vegas. According to Sheriff Kevin McMahill, Abdelnabi was ambushed as he exited his patrol car.
Other officers and a Clark County Office of Public Safety Sergeant responded to the scene, with efforts made to save Abdelnabi, including CPR. He was transported to University Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Abdelnabi, a South Carolina native, joined the LVMPD in November 2023. He is survived by his wife Sage, his parents, two brothers, and a sister. Sheriff McMahill noted Abdelnabi's devotion to his wife, telling her he died doing a job he loved.
His brother, Ryan Abdelnabi, expressed his grief on Facebook, stating the loss felt unreal and had changed his life forever. He also conveyed gratitude for President Trump acknowledging his brother's death during the event.
Abdelnabi was previously stationed at Camp Pendleton and served as a .50 caliber machine gunner during his second deployment. He received the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal among other commendations.
The LVMPD remembered Abdelnabi for his "infectious laugh, larger-than-life personality, and genuine compassion."
Funeral arrangements for Officer Abdelnabi have not yet been announced. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Friday, and two processions have already taken place in his honor.