A masked individual has been charged with federal offenses in connection with the shooting deaths of two bank employees at a Kentucky U.S. Bank branch, following a chaotic high-speed chase that culminated in a crash.
Braylen Weaver, an 18-year-old, allegedly carried out the attack on April 30 at the Bellaire branch, where he reportedly shot and killed the two employees shortly after entering the premises.
According to an affidavit from the FBI, Weaver entered the bank around 1:57 p.m. and “immediately shot and killed the male victim,” before going on to shoot a second employee, a teller.
The Kentucky State Police later identified the victims as 35-year-old Brianna Edwards and 42-year-old Brian Switzer.
After the shooting, authorities stated that Weaver searched through several drawers and then fled on foot.
This incident is being treated as both an armed bank robbery and a gun-related homicide.
Weaver is facing several federal charges, including armed bank robbery and using a firearm during a violent crime, which led to death.
Investigators connected Weaver to the incident through surveillance footage, social media posts, and details about the vehicle likely used for the escape.
The footage showed a figure resembling Weaver, dressed in a mask, gloves, a light hoodie, gray pants, and white sneakers.
A silver BMW seen exiting the area was traced back to a Facebook account linked to Weaver, as detailed in the affidavit.
Images from Weaver’s social media displayed him wearing similar clothing to that worn during the robbery.
Location data and video evidence indicated that Weaver was driving on Interstate 75 the night of the shooting, which prompted a high-speed pursuit involving various law enforcement agencies.
Reports revealed that Weaver drove at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour, sometimes even around 130, before colliding with another vehicle and fleeing on foot.
A firearm was found inside the vehicle, according to authorities.
Kentucky State Police previously stated that a coordinated effort among multiple agencies led to the arrest of “persons of interest” in the robbery.
Switzer, who left behind a wife and three children, was described as a victim of “senseless violence” in a GoFundMe campaign set up for his family.
The fundraiser highlighted the challenges his wife faces in raising their family amid profound grief and turmoil following this tragedy.
In a statement, U.S. Bank expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their employees, offering condolences to the victims’ families and the Bellaire community. The bank mentioned that they are cooperating with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky announced plans to hold a press conference to provide updates about Weaver’s arrest and the federal charges filed against him.
Inquiries for additional comments have also been directed to Kentucky State Police and Weaver’s attorney as the investigation continues.
