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Teenage suspect in deadly Berea bank shooting to appear in federal court

Police tape blocks the entrance to the US Bank in Berea following a deadly robbery on April 30th, 2026.
WKYT
Police tape blocks the entrance to the US Bank in Berea following a deadly robbery on April 30th, 2026.

Investigators say 18-year-old Braylen Weaver killed two employees at a U.S. Bank before leading officers on a multi-agency and multi-county manhunt last week.

Authorities say Weaver's BMW was tracked using surveillance footage, social media posts, and flock cameras. He led police on a high-speed chase, reaching speeds well over 100 m.p.h. ending with a crash in Lexington.

Weaver attempted to flee on foot but was captured and taken into custody.

Several state and federal agencies were involved in the apprehension of the suspect in the deadly Berea, KY bank robbery on April 30, 2026. Representatives from each group held a joint press conference on Friday, May 1, 2026.
Karyn Czar/WUKY
Several state and federal agencies were involved in the apprehension of the suspect in the deadly Berea, KY bank robbery on April 30, 2026. Representatives from each group held a joint press conference on Friday, May 1, 2026.

During a press briefing last Friday, FBI Special Agent Olivia Olson said the tragedy is far from over for the community.

"The only solace we can offer is that this individual, who valued a stolen dollar more than two human lives, will be held accountable to the full extent of the law," Olson said.

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman announced plans to pursue state murder charges along with federal charges. Weaver's court appearance is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday.

Karyn Czar has been a journalist with WUKY since 2013 and is currently the Assistant News Director. She received her bachelor's degree from the University of Kentucky and brings more than 30 years of broadcast experience to NPR. Karyn's work has been recognized with numerous Associated Press, Kentucky Broadcaster Association, Public Media Journalist, and Edward R. Murrow awards throughout her career.