United States of America v. Brailen Weaver

Lexington, Kentucky, criminal defense lawyer represents the Defendant charged with armed bankruptcy.

By Kent Morlan

Brailen Weaver entered a US Bank in Berea, Ky, on April 30, 2026, at approximately 1:57 p.m. Upon entering the bank, Weaver immediately shot and killed a bank employee and then killed a bank teller. Weaver checked multiple drawers in the bank and immediately left. Investigators worked throughout the day to identify a suspect, as the perpetrator was hooded with a black mask. Weaver was ultimately identified as a suspect and his vehicle was located later in the evening. Law enforcement attempted to stop Weaver’s vehicle, leading to a pursuit that exceeded 100 miles per hour. Weaver ultimately crashed his car and then fled on foot. Around 3 a.m. this morning Weaver was captured.

“As alleged, this deplorable act of violence in broad daylight has left two families in Kentucky with unthinkable loss. Our hearts go out to them,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “On day one, President Trump and this Department of Justice reprioritized tackling violent crime. Thanks to the relentless pursuit of law enforcement, Brailen Weaver is off the street and behind bars, and he will now face justice for his alleged heinous actions.”

“The FBI sends our condolences to two families who lost their loved ones in this horrific act of violence,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “In the days ahead, we will work 24/7 with our partners to conduct a full investigation and see to it that the individual responsible is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“Senseless violence has no place in our community. Two innocent people lost their lives due to greed and a complete disregard for the value of life. Thankfully, through the tireless efforts of the Kentucky State Police, FBI, ATF, Lexington Police Department, and many other law enforcement partners, a suspect is in custody and no longer able to wreak havoc in the Eastern District of Kentucky. We will do everything within our power to vindicate this terrible loss,” said Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky.

“A senseless tragedy unfolded in Berea, KY yesterday after a coward with zero regard for human life allegedly murdered two bank employees and then led law enforcement on a dangerous pursuit throughout the eastern Kentucky region. Fulfilling a pillar of the FBI's mission to protect the American people, FBI Louisville along with numerous law enforcement partners was able to safely apprehend the subject and restore safety to the citizens of Berea and the surrounding areas,” said Olivia Olson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office. “We offer our condolences to all who were so tragically affected by yesterday's indefensible acts, and we will stop at nothing to ensure this alleged murderer is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

“While I recognize that we’ve tragically lost two fellow Kentuckians and send our most heartfelt condolences to their families, I’m grateful this incident was brought to this conclusion – apprehension of the suspect with no further harm to our communities and law enforcement." Phillip J. Burnett, Jr., Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police “There is inherent danger in this profession, but the professionalism and cooperation among multiple local, state, and federal partners enabled this successful outcome. Our personnel will continue to support this investigation and work to ensure successful prosecution, bringing justice to the victims' families.”

The case is being investigated by the FBI, ATF, Kentucky State Police, and Lexington Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Melton is representing the United States in this case.

The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations. The Defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.