The Winchester Police Department lost a veteran Police Officer on Sunday. Master Police Officer Mike Brunson was killed when he crashed his pick-up truck while driving on Highway 50, near his home in Capon Bridge, W.Va.
Brunson, 48, was a 21 year veteran of the Department. “He was a great person, a great father, grandfather, husband, son, and friend. He will truly be missed,” said Chief Kevin Sanzenbacher.
Officer Brunson was well known and respected in the community. His unexpected death has made an impact on fellow law enforcement officers and community members he served. Brunson is remembered by his colleagues for providing insightful advice and a calm demeanor during tense situations.
He had an accomplished career at the Winchester Police Department:
- On February 10, 1995, Officer Brunson was sworn at the Winchester Circuit Court Clerk’s Office as a law enforcement officer, to serve and protect the community.
- On June 23, 1995, Officer Brunson graduated from Central Shenandoah Criminal Justice Academy.
- On September 5, 2006, Brunson was promoted to Master Police Officer.
- Officer Brunson was a founding member of the Community Policing Unit, a member of the SWAT Team, Firearms Instructor/Armorer, Field Training Officer, and a counselor with the annual Kids & Cops camp.
- Officer Brunson was the recipient of many letters of commendation and several honors, including a Meritorious Action Award in 2014 for entering a burning home to search for a 2-year-old boy.
Many of you have inquired about Officer Brunson's funeral arrangements. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 2-4 and 6-8 at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel.
A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Friday lead by Police Chaplin Mark Ransom at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel. A private interment will be at Crestview Memorial on Saturday in Grove City, PA, where he will be laid to rest beside his father.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ricky Timbrook Memorial Fund thru the Frederick County/Winchester Law Enforcement Foundation 234 Fairfield Drive, Winchester, VA 22602.