Who is Brailen Weaver? Kentucky teen arrested after two bank workers killed in Berea shooting

Authorities have arrested 18-year-old Brailen Weaver in connection with a deadly bank shooting in Berea, Kentucky, that left two employees dead and stunned the local community.

Investigators say Weaver entered a US Bank branch in Berea shortly before 2 p.m. on April 30 wearing a mask. According to authorities, he immediately opened fire and ordered people inside the bank to step back.

Police say 42-year-old Brian Switzer and 35-year-old Breanna Edwards, both employees at the branch, were killed during the attack.

After the shooting, investigators say Weaver checked multiple cash drawers before fleeing the scene. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether any money was taken.

A large-scale manhunt began within hours, with Kentucky State Police and federal agents reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements and online activity as they worked to identify the suspect.

According to investigators, Weaver’s social media activity quickly drew attention. Authorities say a meme allegedly posted online after the shooting became part of the evidence that helped them track him down.

Investigators also linked Weaver to a silver BMW seen near the bank. Later that evening, law enforcement located the vehicle on Interstate 75, sparking a high-speed chase.

Authorities say Weaver reached speeds of nearly 130 mph before crashing near Lexington and running from the scene on foot.

A massive overnight search involving helicopters, K-9 teams and local officers followed. Weaver was taken into custody at around 3 a.m. on May 1.

A firearm was recovered from the crashed vehicle, though officials have not yet confirmed whether it was the weapon used in the shooting.

Weaver is expected to make his first federal court appearance on May 4 in Lexington. Prosecutors are pursuing federal charges, and additional state-level charges could follow as investigators continue working to determine whether he acted alone and what motivated the attack.