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West Valley City police officer killed in the line of duty

Nov 07, 2016 11:13AM ● By Travis Barton

West Valley City Police Officer Cody Brotherson died during pursuit of stolen vehicle at 2200 W. 4100 S. (West Valley City Police Department)

Members of the West Valley City community are mourning the death of police officer, Cody Brotherson, after he was killed during the pursuit of a stolen vehicle early Sunday morning, Nov. 6. Brotherson is the first line of duty death for the West Valley City Police Department (WVCPD) since the department was formed in 1980.

Brotherson, 25, died after he was struck by a stolen vehicle at the intersection of 2200 W. 4100 S. He is survived by his parents, two brothers and a fiancée.

Brotherson grew up in West Valley City joining the WVCPD in December of 2013.

“This was a young man born and raised in West Valley that chose to serve his community, a true hometown hero,” said Lee Russo, West Valley City Police Chief. Brotherson was one of Russo’s first hires as police chief. 

West Valley City spokeswoman, Roxanne Vainuku, said a police officer observed a suspicious vehicle near 4100 S. Redwood Road. Officers who responded to the area observed three people heading toward the Boulder Pines Apartment Complex located at 1535 W. 4040 S. where officers witnessed three suspects steal a vehicle from the parking complex.

Officers pursued the stolen vehicle and attempted to spike the vehicle’s tires at the 2200 W. 4100 S. intersection when the car reportedly veered toward officers. Vainuku said about 30 seconds later, one of the officers called for medical assistance for the officer who had been hit. Brotherson was outside of his vehicle when he was hit.

Three suspects are in custody and being questioned to determine their involvement. The investigation will be handled by the Salt Lake County critical incident team.

Members of Brotherson’s family including his parents, two younger brothers, fiancée and aunt shared a statement in front of his home in West Valley.

Jenny, Brotherson’s mother, said his life-long dream was realized when he became a police officer three years ago.

“He was the best person any family could ever ask for. Cody had the most loyal heart and would do anything for those he loved, he was the family jokester and protector,” Jenny read in a statement.

Russo said there’s been “an amazing amount of outreach from the community,” showing its support by dropping off flowers, food and requesting ways they can help.

“It really is refreshing to see a community come together and its showing the police officers that come to work every day, truly how much they are appreciated for what they do,” Russo said.

Brotherson was honored, along with eight other police officers, in September by the United States Attorney for Utah, John Huber, for diffusing a situation with a notorious gang member.

“Everyone who protected our community, and ran toward the danger when the rest of us would run away, we’d like to recognize them,” Huber said of the officers, including Brotherson, before presenting them each with plaques.

 Governor Gary Herbert said in a statement that this is a “tragic reminder of the selflessness and unwavering courage that is required of our peace officers and their families each day.”

 “We cannot thank enough those who put their lives on the line to serve, defend and protect our communities,” he said. “Officer Brotherson’s sacrifice will not be forgotten."

Brotherson's patrol car will be on display in the promenade at Fairbourne Plaza where members of the community can express their condolences. Fairbourne Plaza is located just west of West Valley City Hall.