LAPD Grieving

Los Angeles: As the investigations into the unrelated traffic deaths of two Los Angeles Police Department Officers continues, LA Police Chief William Bratton mourns not only their loss, but the loss of his mother as well.

This morning, June 30, 2007, Department personnel learned of Chief Bratton’s loss through a statement released by Assistant Chief Earl Paysinger. Chief Bratton learned of the passing of his mother early Sunday morning, followed within hours by the deaths of Detective Selleh and Officer Rodriguez.

"It is with profound regret that I share with you the unfortunate news that the mother of our Chief of Police, William J. Bratton, passed away early yesterday morning, after an extended illness. Even while leading the Department during its time of grief with the tragic loss of Mission Area Detective George Selleh and North Hollywood GED Officer David Rodriguez in separate, off-duty traffic collisions, Chief Bratton dealt quietly with his own loss – that of his beloved mom.

A resident of Boston, she leaves as her legacy, not only Chief Bratton and his wife Rikki to mourn her passing, but also her husband with whom she shared her life for over six decades. Another daughter and two grandsons and scores of family and friends also mourn the loss of June Bratton."

Join me in whispering a prayer that He will grant all of them favor and peace…."

Any questions can be directed to Media Relations at 213-485-3586.