WARREN COUNTY, Ky. – A massive manhunt is underway across Kentucky following the tragic death of a state trooper and the issuance of a statewide Blue Alert for the suspect involved.
Authorities have identified the suspect as Emonnie Branch, who is wanted for allegedly assaulting a law enforcement officer in Smiths Grove on Sept. 28. The incident, which prompted a multi-agency response to Interstate 65, resulted in the death of Kentucky State Police (KSP) Trooper Hayden Phillips.
Trooper Phillips, a graduate of KSP Cadet Class 103 and a former officer with the Glasgow Police Department, was patrolling I-65 in Warren County when the fatal encounter occurred. KSP Colonel Phillip Burnett Jr. issued a somber statement following the tragedy. “His dedication to duty and commitment to the Commonwealth will not be forgotten,” Burnett said. “Our hearts break for Trooper Phillips’ family, loved ones, and fellow troopers as we grieve this tremendous loss. We will carry his memory with us, honor the life he lived and the badge he wore, and stand together as an agency to support this family in the days ahead.”
The investigation began on the afternoon of Sept. 28, when first responders—including Warren County deputies, Warren County Emergency Management, and KSP—rushed to the 39-mile marker of I-65 Northbound. The interstate was shut down for hours as police secured the scene and began the search for the assailant. Traffic was rerouted at Exit 30, and the investigation forced long-term closures of the highway corridor.
As of Sunday afternoon, officials have released a description of the suspect and his vehicle to aid in the ongoing manhunt. Branch is described as a Black male with dreadlocks. He is believed to be operating a blueish-gray 2025 Honda Civic displaying a temporary tag, TN018596. The vehicle was last observed traveling northbound on I-65 near the 75-mile marker.
Law enforcement agencies have officially classified Branch as armed and dangerous. Authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution and under no circumstances approach the suspect if he is spotted.
“If seen, do not approach this individual. Call 911 immediately,” the Blue Alert warning stated.
The loss of Trooper Phillips has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and the surrounding communities he served. As the manhunt for Branch intensifies, police have not yet released further details regarding the specific circumstances of the assault or the subsequent shooting.
State and local agencies remain on high alert as they coordinate a search to bring the suspect into custody. Further updates will be provided as the Kentucky State Police release additional information.
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