Nevada Man Killed in Arizona Shootout

Tom Darby

Holbrook, Ari. — A high-speed chase and shooting in Navajo County, Arizona, left a Fernley man and his dog dead, authorities confirmed.

The man, identified as 54-year-old Kevin Donald Peloso, was pronounced dead by Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) officers on December 13. A black dog traveling with him also died, while a second dog remains missing.

Peloso, who lived in Fernley with his adopted son and two dogs, had a history of severe bipolar disorder. His family said he had been showing signs of severe mental distress in the days leading up to the incident.

Authorities said Peloso was stopped by a DPS trooper on I-40 eastbound on December 13 due to erratic driving and license plate concerns. Peloso fled, leading law enforcement on a multi-county pursuit.

Reports indicate he may have fired at officers and a helicopter during the chase.

Witnesses said Peloso released one of his dogs during the pursuit; the other remained in his vehicle and died in the confrontation. The Bronco he was towing ended up totaled after law enforcement intervention.

Authorities continue searching for the missing dog, Truckee, in the Painted Desert area.