The man from Tennessee, Emonnie Branch, 51, is facing charges for the murder of Kentucky State Trooper Hayden Phillips. Branch was already on probation and wanted for violating terms related to past convictions; his criminal history includes offenses like assault, fraud, and illegal possession of firearms.
On Tuesday, a bond was denied for Branch, who has been charged with murdering a first responder in the tragic death of Phillips, a dedicated family man with three young children. According to records from the Tennessee Department of Correction, Branch had been serving a five-year probation sentence for a fraud conviction, set to conclude in July 2030.
Sumner County District Attorney Thomas Dean explained that Branch was wanted for a probation violation connected to his securities fraud case prior to the shooting incident on Monday. During the arraignment, Commonwealth’s Attorney Kori Bumgarner noted that Branch’s criminal past is quite extensive, encompassing various offenses.
Additionally, Dean revealed that Branch had previous convictions for attempted domestic assault and violating a no-contact order, along with a firearm-related conviction from 2009 due to his status as a convicted felon. He was arrested twice this year for violating probation, and he remains in custody without bond on the current murder and fugitive charges.
Phillips was shot during a traffic stop on Interstate 65 and was identified as Branch’s target. Authorities quickly issued a Blue Alert and apprehended him later that evening in Louisville. U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner expressed outrage at the murder, emphasizing the profound impact on Phillips’s family, particularly his wife and children.
During a press briefing, Bumgarner reiterated the commitment of the Justice Department to support state prosecutors in pursuing the toughest penalties possible. Kentucky State Police Commissioner Col. Phillip Burnett Jr. condemned Branch’s actions and emphasized the importance of seeking justice for Phillips, who had been serving with the state police for three years.
Phillips’s wife, Jordan, shared her deep sorrow online, reminiscing about waiting for her husband to return home, and pledged to gather strength for their children. She expressed a desire for people to share their memories of Phillips with their sons, describing him as someone who was truly worthy of celebration.
In a show of respect, Gov. Andy Beshear ordered flags at state buildings to be flown at half-staff in honor of Phillips, recognizing his sacrifice in protecting the community. He encouraged Kentuckians to pray for Phillips’s family and consider donations to the Kentucky State Police Foundation, which would go directly to them.
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Thursday evening to commemorate Trooper Hayden Phillips, a hero to many. His tragic death has left a community mourning, reflecting on the dangers faced by those who serve in law enforcement.
