"Heroes Live Forever" - the story of Richmond (CA) Police Officer Bradley A. Moody

He was a beloved and highly respected police officer. More than 1,500 people attended his memorial service. And, remarkably, even the gangsters and dope dealers he arrested paid tribute to him.

Officer Bradley A. Moody

McLean, VA (March 30, 2026) - On October 7, 2008, Richmond (CA) Police Officer Bradley Moody died from injuries suffered three days earlier in an auto crash while responding to a call for backup from another officer who was dealing with a violent assault in progress. It was raining. The roads were slick and visibility was low. His patrol car lost traction, slid off the roadway and struck a light pole. He was only 29 years old. His K-9 partner Rico survived with minor injuries. Bradley did not. More than 1,500 people attended Brad’s memorial service. His K‑9 partner Rico stood on stage beside more than 100 police dogs from across the region. Richmond’s police chief, Chris Magnus, said Brad was held “in the highest regard by his peers. His work ethic was extraordinary, and his commitment to the community of Richmond and his profession unparalleled.” Among his survivors were his wife, Susan, and young daughters Madison (age 3 at the time) and Emma (age 1). He was so beloved and respected in his community that even the gangsters and dope dealers that he had arrested honored him with a makeshift memorial near the site of his death. His wife, Susan, transformed her grief into service. She became a powerful voice for surviving families and eventually served as President of the Northern California Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) Chapter.

Listen to the podcast to hear the rest of the story: https://open.substack.com/pub/behindbadge/p/heroes-live-forever-the-story-of-364