A 72-year-old grandmother, Fukuyo Koketsu Bryant, was killed Friday, April 4, after being struck and dragged by an SUV driven by 35-year-old Bradford Brown, who is now facing serious charges.
Fatal Custody Dispute Turns Deadly on Apache Lane
According to Apex police, the incident occurred around 10 p.m. on Apache Lane. Brown arrived to pick up his 6-year-old son from the child’s maternal grandparents when a verbal altercation erupted. Eyewitnesses say Brown placed the child in the rear seat of his vehicle without securing him in a proper child safety seat.
When Bryant attempted to remove the child from the SUV, authorities allege that Brown reversed the vehicle suddenly. The open rear passenger door struck Bryant, knocking her to the ground, where she was subsequently dragged underneath the vehicle and run over. She died at the scene.
Brown Fled Scene, Later Apprehended
Following the incident, Brown fled the area on foot. Apex police located and arrested him shortly afterward. He has been charged with voluntary manslaughter, and officials say additional charges are possible as the investigation continues.
Another unidentified individual who was reportedly in the vehicle at the time also fled the scene and remains at large.
Court Appearance and Bond Conditions
During his court appearance on Monday, April 7, Brown expressed remorse, stating, “I am so sorry for this.” The presiding judge set his bond at $500,000 and ordered that he have no contact with his son or the Bryant family if released on bond.
The case will be presented to a grand jury on April 22.
Family Attorney Says History of Volatility Exists
The Bryant family’s attorney, Melody Davalos, told media outlets that there had been a history of tension and volatility between the family and Brown. She confirmed that while the child was not physically injured, he is severely traumatized by the traumatic event he witnessed.
Investigation Ongoing
Law enforcement is urging anyone with additional information to come forward, particularly regarding the unidentified passenger who fled the vehicle.
