A tragic and shocking incident unfolded in North Las Vegas on February 4, 2025, when a gunfight with police left Officer Jason Roscow, 49, dead, and the suspect, 25-year-old Alexander Mathis, also lost his life. Mathis, who was previously arrested on gun-related charges, was identified as the shooter involved in the deadly confrontation.
Mathis, described by police as homeless, had a troubling history with firearms. In 2019, he was arrested by Las Vegas Metro police for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit and resisting an officer. During that arrest, Mathis admitted to having a firearm he found in a backpack, explaining that he kept it for protection due to his homelessness. He later missed several court dates, leading to a warrant for his arrest.
In 2021, Mathis was arrested again on the outstanding warrant following a shooting near downtown Las Vegas. Although it was unclear whether Mathis was involved in that specific incident, he eventually pleaded no contest to the gun charge, resulting in a six-month jail sentence, which was suspended. This meant he would avoid jail time unless he committed a new crime. The gun charge was later reduced to a misdemeanor.
The fatal shootout occurred on Tuesday, and while the specifics of the incident remain unclear, Mathis’s violent past raises concerns about the circumstances leading up to the deadly encounter with police. Officer Roscow, who was tragically shot multiple times during the exchange, is being remembered by his colleagues and the community as a dedicated officer.
As the investigation continues, North Las Vegas police have yet to provide additional details or answer further questions. The heartbreaking loss of Officer Roscow has left a deep impact on the community, as residents and law enforcement officials alike mourn the tragic events.
