A Red Lake, Minn., tribal police officer and a civilian were both killed in a two-vehicle crash last week, according to a statement issued by the Red Lake Department of Public Safety.
Officer Jesse Branch, 35, and Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians member Alan Lussier, Jr., 37, died on Wednesday when their vehicles collided on Hwy 1 east of the Red Lake community. They were the only occupants of their respective vehicles, and Officer Branch was reportedly on duty at the time.
A social media post from the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) stated, in part, “Officer Branch was a respected professional officer who loved the community he served. He previously served on the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Posse and had just joined the North Country First Responders. He was supposed to pick up his gear today.” The BCSO post also included video of the fallen officer’s body being escorted through the county by several squads and other first responder vehicles.
A statement posted by Minnesota Rep.-Elect Bidal Duran (Bemidji) on behalf of himself and Rep. Matt Grossell (Clearbrook) said, “We are truly heartbroken for the family and friends of Officer Jesse Branch. They will be in our prayers as they face the grief of losing a loved one heading into a time of year that should be filled with joy and happiness. Officer Branch served our community with honor, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the safety of others.”
The statement continued, “Having both been a part of the law enforcement community, there is nothing more difficult in this line of work than losing a brother in blue. Officer Branch’s bravery and selflessness will never be forgotten. We share our support for our police and peace officers in this especially difficult time.”
Branch was recently named one of several officers recognized as a 2023 DWI All-Star Enforcer, one of several statewide law enforcement recognition awards sponsored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
Gov. Tim Walz ordered flags to be flown at half-staff starting late last Wednesday in honor and remembrance of Branch.
Red Lake DPS said in their statement that the crash is still under investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol and the FBI.
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Minnesota Crime Watch & Information publishes news, info and commentary about crime, public safety and livability issues in Minneapolis, the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota.
Crime Watch MN
Minnesota Crime Watch & Information publishes news, info and commentary about crime, public safety and livability issues in Minneapolis, the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota.
