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Minnesota News
MPR News Staff

Red Lake Nation Tribal Officer killed in traffic accident

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The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office said Red Lake Nation Tribal Officer Jesse Branch was killed Wednesday in a traffic accident while on duty. Branch was responding to a call.

Flags will be flown at half-staff at state and tribal buildings in his honor. Red Lake Nation Chairman Darrell G. Seki, Sr. announced the decision to lower flags in a Facebook post.

“Chairman Seki has ordered flags be flown at half-staff at Tribal Buildings and enterprises in honor of our fallen Police Officer and relative who were involved in this morning’s tragic fatal car accident,” the Facebook post said. “Our condolences, thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones during this difficult time.”

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz said in addition to state and tribal buildings, individuals, business owners and other organizations are also encouraged to lower their flags.

“Officer Jesse Branch committed his life to public service. He was known for his love and dedication to Red Lake Nation, where he selflessly served his community,” Walz said in a statement released Wednesday. “With deep gratitude, Minnesota recognizes Officer Branch. His family, friends, and community are in our prayers.”

The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office said Branch previously served on the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Posse and had just joined the North Country First Responders. In a Facebook post, they said Branch was supposed to pick up his gear today.

“Officer Branch was a respected professional officer who loved the community he served,” the sheriff’s office said on the social media post. “It was our honor to provide the escort through Beltrami County. Thank you for your service and we’ll take it from here.”