18-Year-Old Brailen Weaver Charged in Fatal Kentucky Bank Shootings; Allegedly Led 130‑MPH Chase

An 18-year-old, identified by federal prosecutors as Brailen Weaver, has been charged after two bank employees were allegedly shot to death during a robbery at a U.S. Bank branch in Berea, Kentucky, on April 30.

According to a federal criminal affidavit filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky and a release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, Weaver entered the bank wearing a mask at about 1:57 p.m. local time and opened fire, killing two employees. The victims were later identified as Brian Switzer, 42, and Breanna Edwards, 35.

U.S. Bank in Berea, Ky.Credit: Google Maps

The affidavit says Weaver checked multiple drawers after the shooting and then left the bank. Authorities say he fled in a silver BMW and that investigators later associated that vehicle with Weaver on Interstate 75.

At approximately 8:00 p.m. the same day, agents allege Weaver posted a meme on social media showing a person in an alien mask holding a pile of cash with the caption 'I pledge allegiance to da bag' — a slang reference to money. A copy of the image is included in the court affidavit, according to the filing.

Brian Switzer, one of the victims in the fatal Kentucky bank shooting on April 30, 2026Credit: gofundme

Federal, state and local agencies located the BMW and pursued the vehicle. The affidavit states the chase reached speeds of about 130 miles per hour before the car crashed and the suspect fled on foot. Authorities say Weaver was taken into custody at roughly 3:00 a.m. on May 1.

Weaver now faces multiple federal charges, including armed bank robbery, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and causing death with a firearm in the course of a violent crime. He is scheduled to appear in federal court on Monday, May 4, at 2 p.m., the U.S. Attorney's Office said.

Breanna Edwards, one of the victims of the Kentucky bank shooting on April 30, 2026Credit: Facebook

Acting U.S. Attorney Todd Blanche offered condolences to the victims' families and praised law enforcement. "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," he said. "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."

Investigation and Community Response

The investigation is being led by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Kentucky State Police and the Lexington Police Department.

Fundraisers have been established to support the victims' families. A GoFundMe for Brian Switzer describes him as a husband and father of three and says he was the family's primary provider; organizers called the shooting a "senseless act of violence." A separate GoFundMe for Breanna Edwards remembers her as a "beautiful soul" and notes the family is devastated by her loss.

Note: Charges and allegations are from federal court filings and the U.S. Attorney's Office. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.