A Community's Quest for Justice: The Unsolved Murders of Joel Branch Jr. and Gerald Morris

A Tragic Memorial Day Gathering

On May 25, 2015, the tranquility of San Diego's Valencia Park neighborhood was shattered by a heinous act of violence. Joel Branch Jr., a 48-year-old father of seven, hosted a small group of family and friends on his front patio on Groveland Drive to watch an NBA playoff game. As the evening progressed, two unidentified men approached the gathering and opened fire, fatally wounding Branch and his cousin, 48-year-old Gerald Morris. A third individual was also shot a block away, likely by the same assailants, but survived the attack. The perpetrators fled on foot, and despite extensive investigations, they remain at large.

A Pillar of the Community

Branch, affectionately known as "Junior," was revered in his community for his remarkable transformation and dedication to uplifting others. Having overcome a troubled past, he established a successful hauling business that provided employment opportunities to those seeking a fresh start, including individuals transitioning from incarceration. His sister, Johnnie Branch-Durham, highlighted his unwavering commitment to helping others, noting his generosity in assisting churches and neighbors without expecting compensation. ...Read More

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