Lynchburg police mourn the death of an officer

By Aimee Norton

Published: April 30, 2008

Lynchburg police officers mourn the death of one of their own. 

Officer William Branham passed away Wednesday morning from colon and liver cancer. He was diagnosed just a few weeks ago.  His cruiser is parked in front of the police department with flowers on the hood as a triubte.  Officers also shrouded their badges. 

Branham joined the department almost eight years ago as a cadet.  He went on to work in the Traffic Safety Unit. 

“It’s very emotional because Will was a guy that of course everybody liked, he was easy to talk to, he was fun to be around and he was a good police officer. He was a good father, a good husband so, anyone it’s touch to lose and when you’re close to someone it doesn’t make it any easier,” said Captain Brandon Zuidema.

Officer Branham was just 26-years-old.  He leaves behind a wife and two small children.  The department is holding a benefit dinner for his family June 7th at the Lynchburg Elks Lodge.  A ticket for two will be $100.  There will also be a slient auction and raffle to raise money for the Branham family.