Donate to Help the Family of Fallen Kentucky Trooper Hayden Phillips
Kentucky State Trooper Hayden Phillips Remembered for His Kindness
Yesterday, I was sitting in a meeting when my phone went bananas. I looked down, and there was an urgent warning message that Kentucky State Police were searching for a bluish-gray Honda that was present during a trooper-involved shooting. We immediately went to work to get the word out to the public.
Kentucky State Trooper Killed During I-65 Traffic Stop
Trooper Hayden Phillips, Unit 369, made the ultimate sacrifice while patrolling I-65 in Warren County. When the trooper pulled the Honda over, the suspect fired, killing Phillips. A witness called authorities.
Not long after, Emonnie Branch was located in Jefferson County and arrested by Louisville Metro Police. Branch faces a charge of murder of a first responder, Col. Phillip Burnett Jr. of the Kentucky State Police 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. -KSP
People Are Sharing Stories About Trooper Phillips
This morning, I saw a Facebook post by news personality Ryan Wolf about the incident. Several folks shared their experiences with the trooper.
Tina Patterson shared this story:
"I remember meeting officer Phillips one night while I was traveling and my granddaughters were with me. I had stopped at a store and a gentleman said I didn't have a tag light. While I was trying to replace it, this trooper came to my rescue and replaced the bulb for me. A very nice gentleman. My prayers for his family."
Kem Carbajal Lagunas also shared a very personal story about Trooper Phillips.
"The night everything happened with my dad, Trooper Hayden Phillips was one of the troopers who was there. In a moment that was absolutely heartbreaking for my family, he showed us so much compassion."
She said she'll never forget him telling her, “Put it in God’s hands. I feel for you and your family, and I’m sorry it has to be this way. But we just have to do our job.”
It was such an emotional moment for her. Despite the circumstances and the job they were there to do, she said they still tried to comfort and support her and her family in any way they could.
Trooper Phillips even gave the boy a little stuffed animal, and that small act of kindness is something she'll always remember.
"My heart truly goes out to his family and everyone who knew and loved him. I'm praying that God surrounds them with comfort, strength, and peace during such an unimaginable time."
Trooper Phillips Loved His Job
Stories like these of Trooper Phillips' kindness and compassion poured in, along with countless comments that he loved his job. It was a dream he fulfilled to work as a Kentucky State Trooper.
From Townsquare Media, our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, and the men and women who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. The Kentucky State Police say they will seek justice for this unspeakable crime.
How You Can Help Trooper Phillips' Family
Trooper Phillips leaves behind a wife and three children. If you would like to donate to their future, the Kentucky State Police Foundation announced a fundraiser for the family.
The Kentucky State Police Foundation is accepting donations to support Trooper Phillips' family during this incredibly difficult time.
100% of donations designated to the Trooper Hayden Phillips Fund will go directly to his family. These funds can help with meals, household expenses, and other everyday needs as they navigate the days ahead.
You can donate online using either of the links below:
PayPal: DONATE HERE
Zeffy: DONATE HERE
If you prefer to give by check, donations may be mailed to:
Kentucky State Police Foundation
1303 US HWY 127 S., Suite 402-204
Frankfort, KY 40601
Memo Line: Trooper Hayden Phillips
We are grateful to everyone who chooses to honor Trooper Phillips' service and sacrifice by supporting his family during this difficult time.
The family is warning to ONLY donate through links provided by the Kentucky State Police Foundation as scammers have already set up shop.
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Gallery Credit: Travis Sams