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Memorial cruise raises funds for family of fallen WVC officer who loved cars

Posted at 4:35 PM, Nov 12, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-12 23:47:43-05

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah -- Bikers, car enthusiasts and law enforcement personnel all came together Saturday afternoon to support the family of West Valley City Officer Cody Brotherson.

wvc-officer-cody-brotherson-1Brotherson, 25, was killed last Sunday while attempting to lay out spike strips during a police chase involving three juvenile suspects.

Brotherson was a fan of cars, so event organizers felt a memorial cruise featuring classic cars and other vehicles was a fitting tribute.

“I didn't think it would be this big,” Mike Grandy, a biker who attended, said. “You know, we where looking on Facebook this morning, it was 800 or something, there's easily 1,500 if not more here now, and they just keep rolling in."

Loved ones say Brotherson’s passion for the automotive world occupied most of his free time. At least a thousand people turned out for the car show and rally that started at Valley Fair Mail in West Valley City and will head toward the Utah State Capitol.

The event included a $10 donation per car, and all of the proceeds will go toward helping the Brotherson family with funeral arrangements and other expenses.

Cody Brotherson’s father, Jeff, said Cody loved events like this.

“I mean this is unreal,” he said. “Cody is so happy right now. He was so into cars and bikes. We just want everybody here."

Brotherson said they are touched by the level of support they've seen since the tragic loss of his son.

“The love and support from the community has been overwhelming,” Jeff Brotherson said. “I had no idea what my son did, and how many people he's touched. I'm so proud of him, and this is great."

Funeral services for Officer Brotherson will be held Monday morning at the Maverik Center in West Valley City, and a public viewing will be held Sunday night. The public is invited to both events, click here for details on times, the procession route and the associated street closures.

Fox 13 news will stream the funeral services live online for those who are unable to attend in person.