Kentucky Man Says Represented By Jesus Christ

Tuesday, April 02, 2002
Monty Ray Branch
Monty Ray Branch

A man who was stopped on I-75 near East Brainerd Road after allegedly threatening to kill President George W. Bush made a court appearance in Bradley County.

Monty Ray Branch, 29, of Frankfort, Ky., told a judge he had hired an attorney. Asked who it was, he said it was "Jesus Christ."

A decision is expected in a week on bond for Branch.

Authorities said the man telephoned Bradley County authorities and threatened to kill the president with a 3,000-pound bomb and a truck full of propane.

A number of agencies were involving in chasing the AmeriGas truck he was driving. The chase went some 18 miles in the southbound lanes of I-75.

He was finally halted using "Stop Sticks" that deflate truck tires.

Officials said no bombs were found in the truck.

He was identified as an employee of AmeriGas.

A portion of the interstate was closed to vehicular traffic as officers sought to stop the man.


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