Funeral Held for Kentucky Trooper Killed During Traffic Stop

Overview

• Trooper Hayden Phillips was shot and killed during a traffic stop on Interstate 65 on Monday, Sept. 28, while speaking with the driver of a Honda Civic.
• Investigators used in‑car dash‑cam footage, an expired temporary tag trace, phone pings and vehicle forensics including a shell casing and blood to identify and arrest 51‑year‑old Emonnie Branch.
• Branch has been indicted on charges that include murder of a first responder and faces court proceedings while remaining held without bond.
• A public visitation at Living Hope Baptist Church on Oct. 3 drew law enforcement and community members from across the country and the funeral on Oct. 4 at WKU’s E.A. Diddle Arena included tributes from Gov. Andy Beshear and hundreds of officers and mourners.
• The Kentucky State Police have urged donations to the family through the Kentucky State Police Foundation and pledged continued support to Trooper Phillips’ widow and three sons as the investigation and prosecution continue.