A horrific armed robbery at a U.S. Bank branch in Berea, Kentucky, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, resulted in the deaths of two employees: Brian Switzer and Breanna Bryant Edwards.
Following an intensive manhunt and a high-speed chase, a suspect has been apprehended and is facing federal charges.
The Incident
Location: U.S. Bank branch, 114 Plaza Drive, Berea, KY (located near the Berea College campus).
Time: Thursday, April 30, at approximately 1:57 p.m.
Details: According to the FBI affidavit, a suspect wearing a gray-white hoodie, mask, and gloves entered the bank and immediately opened fire. He fatally shot a male employee (Brian Switzer) and then a female teller (Breanna Bryant Edwards). After checking multiple cash drawers, the suspect fled the scene in a silver BMW.
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The Manhunt and Arrest
Identification: Investigators identified Brailen Weaver, 18, as the suspect by matching the getaway vehicle to a car he had listed for sale on Facebook and comparing his social media photos to surveillance footage.
The Chase: On Thursday night, law enforcement spotted Weaver’s vehicle on I-75. A pursuit ensued at speeds exceeding 100 mph, eventually reaching 130 mph as it entered Lexington. Weaver crashed his vehicle and fled on foot.
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Apprehension: Weaver was captured at approximately 3:00 a.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Legal Charges
Brailen Weaver was formally charged in federal court on Friday, May 1:
Federal Charges: Armed bank robbery, use of a firearm in a crime of violence, and causing death with a firearm.
State Charges: Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has announced that his office will also pursue state murder charges.
Remembering the Victims
The Berea community is in mourning for the two victims, who were well-known local residents:
Brian Switzer: A longtime bank employee described by colleagues as a “staple of the branch” known for his kindness to customers.
Breanna Bryant Edwards: A beloved teller whose loss has devastated her young family and friends.
U.S. Bank issued a statement on Friday expressing deep sadness:
“Our hearts go out to the families of the victims, our colleagues, and the entire Berea community. We are committed to supporting those affected by this senseless tragedy.”
A memorial fund and vigils are expected to be organized by the local community in the coming days. As of May 2, 2026, formal funeral arrangements for both Brian and Breanna have not yet been publicly released
