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Support for Lanelle and Daughters After Tragedy

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On November 27, 2024, Our community tragically lost Red Lake Public Safety Officer Jesse Branch, who was killed in the line of duty due to a heartbreaking head-on traffic crash while responding to a call for help.

In the wake of immense loss, we are establishing a GoFundMe page to support Jesse's beloved girlfriend Lanelle, and their two daughters. Jesse and Lanelle met in 2022 and they began dating in 2023. Jesse cherished Lanelle and embraced her daughter and niece raising them together and caring for them both as his own, showing them unwavering love and dedication. Unfortunately, since Jesse and Lanelle were not legally married, they will not qualify for survivor benefits.

The funds raised from this campaign will go towards ensuring that the girls experience a joyful Christmas, and the remaining contributions will help with on going expenses as they navigate life without Jesse.

Jesse Branch was a proud graduate of Bemidji High School and began his 17- year career with The Red Lake Department of Public safety shortly after graduation at the young age of 18. Jesse started as a Corrections Officer and paved his way to the top as Corrections Sergeant. In 2021, He realized one of his life long dreams by completing the Indian Country Police Academy training from the IPA Class #174. Afterward, he served as a Traffic Safety Officer of Red Lake Nation, earning recognition for his exceptional work, including being named a TZD DWI All- Star and being invited to speak this past summer in New Mexico about Traffic Enforcement in Indian Country - a testament to his commitment and expertise.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jesse was deeply involved in his community, serving as a valuable member of Beltrami County's Mounted Posse and North Country First Responders, always ready to lend a hand, both on and off the clock.

Now as we face this heartbreaking reality, its our turn to rally around Lanelle and the girls, just as Jesse would have done for anyone in need. We sincerely thank you for your support. If you are unable to contribute financially, please consider sharing this page with friends, family, and colleagues to spread the word. Your kindness and compassion mean the world to us during this difficult time.
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Donations 

  • Anonymous
    • $250
    • 24 d
  • Jaime Billings
    • $100
    • 2 mos
  • Dan Starkenburg
    • $200
    • 2 mos
  • Anonymous
    • $75
    • 2 mos
  • Nicole DuBois
    • $150
    • 2 mos
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Organizer and beneficiary

Samantha Dow
Organizer
Bemidji, MN
Lanelle Thompson
Beneficiary

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