Alan Lussier Jr Obituary, Death: Minnesota Officer Dies in Two-Vehicle Crash
Alan Lussier Jr Obituary, Death – A tragic traffic collision on Wednesday claimed the lives of two individuals, including a 35-year-old Red Lake tribal police officer, Jesse Branch. The crash occurred on Highway 1, east of the Red Lake community, and involved Branch and 37-year-old Alan Lussier Jr. The details surrounding the crash have not yet been revealed.
Red Lake Tribal Chair Darrell G. Seki Sr. ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at tribal buildings and other locations in honor of Officer Branch. Branch, who had been serving with the Red Lake law enforcement since the age of 18, started his career as a corrections officer before becoming a police officer. His sister, Tina Garrison, shared fond memories of him, describing him as a kind, cheerful, and selfless individual who was always willing to help others. She added that he had been in a relationship for over a year and treated his girlfriend’s children as his own.
Branch, originally from Bemidji, was passionate about rodeo, horses, and 4-H activities. He was known for his love of horses, having grown up riding them and being active in 4-H. His sister expressed that he was a well-loved figure in their community, always ready with a joke or a smile.
In addition to his work as a police officer, Branch was also involved with the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, where he had served on the Sheriff’s Posse. He had recently joined the North Country First Responders group, with plans to pick up his gear on the day of his death. The Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office expressed its condolences to Branch’s family and the Red Lake Nation, mourning the loss of a respected officer. They also organized a memorial escort through Beltrami County in honor of Branch’s service, paying tribute to his dedication and commitment to his community.
Many people who knew Branch took to social media to remember him fondly. Alice Benaise, who had spoken with Branch just days before his death, shared that he was extremely proud of his transition from detention officer to police officer. Ashlyn Lyons, a former co-worker who had known Branch since he was 18, described him as someone who had devoted his life to serving the Red Lake Nation and was always passionate about public safety.
The Red Lake Nation Police Department had experienced a similar loss in 2021, when Officer Ryan Bialke was shot and killed while on duty. Bialke’s death, caused by suspect David Brian Donnell Jr., deeply impacted the department, and Donnell was sentenced to 37 years in prison for the murder.
In addition to the loss of Officer Branch, the crash also claimed the life of Alan Lussier Jr., a St. Paul resident who had been visiting family on the reservation for the Thanksgiving holiday. His sister, Leighshell Layton, described him as a caring and humorous individual who always supported his family and friends. Lussier was known as a protector and had a significant impact on everyone he met. His survivors include six sons and many others who will deeply miss him.
The crash remains under investigation, and the community continues to mourn the loss of two individuals who were deeply loved and respected by those who knew them.
