High-Speed Chase Following Fatal Shooting at Kentucky Bank
A masked suspect, implicated in the fatal shootings of two bank employees in Kentucky, is now facing federal charges after a chaotic high-speed chase that concluded with a crash, according to court documents.
Braylen Weaver, 18, is accused of the attack that took place on April 30 at a U.S. Bank branch in Bellaire. Reports suggest he shot and killed two employees shortly after entering the premises.
According to an FBI affidavit, he entered the bank around 1:57 p.m., and “immediately shot and killed the male victim” before turning the gun on a second employee, who was a teller.
The victims have been identified as Brianna Edwards, 35, and Brian Switzer, 42, by Kentucky State Police during a press briefing.
Following the shooting, the suspect reportedly searched through several drawers before fleeing the scene on foot.
This incident is classified as armed robbery and firearm-related homicide. Weaver faces serious federal charges, including armed bank robbery and using a firearm in a violent crime, which resulted in death.
Authorities established a connection between Weaver and the crime based on surveillance footage and social media activity, along with the vehicle believed to have been used for the getaway.
Pictures from Weaver’s social media displayed him dressed in attire that matched descriptions of what he wore during the robbery.
Surveillance footage captured a suspect with a build resembling Weaver’s, wearing a mask, gloves, a light-colored hoodie, gray pants, and white sneakers.
A silver BMW that was seen leaving the area was linked to a Facebook account associated with Weaver, the affidavit detailed. Investigators noted that location data placed him on Interstate 75 the night of the shooting, which led to a high-speed chase involving multiple agencies.
During the pursuit, speeds exceeded 100 mph, reaching as high as 130 mph before Weaver crashed into another vehicle and fled on foot. A gun was discovered in the vehicle afterward, according to authorities.
Kentucky State Police previously announced a coordinated effort involving several agencies that led to the arrest of individuals deemed persons of interest related to the robbery.
Switzer, who is survived by a wife and three children, was described as a victim of a “senseless act of violence,” according to a GoFundMe established to assist his family. The fundraiser emphasized the burden now faced by his widow, who must raise their family while grappling with the loss and the chaos that has followed.
In a statement, U.S. Bank expressed its deep sadness over the tragic incident, extending condolences to the victims’ families and the Berea community. They also noted their collaboration with law enforcement to support those affected.
Currently, the investigation continues, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky has indicated plans for a press conference to discuss updates regarding the suspect’s arrest and federal charges.
