Brian Hunter, a 62-year-old man from Bedford, Pennsylvania, tragically lost his life on April 24, 2021. Born on July 4, 1958, in Richmond, Virginia, Hunter was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He served in the U.S. Army and worked as an owner/operator truck driver for 22 years. Hunter was known for his kindness and dedication to his family, enjoying activities like detailing cars, boxing, and spending time with his loved ones.
Hunter's death was the result of a violent incident involving his daughter's boyfriend, Tico Octavious Franklin. On the day of the incident, Hunter was called to his daughter's home due to a domestic dispute. Upon arrival, Hunter asked Franklin to leave, but Franklin refused and pulled out a handgun, shooting Hunter multiple times. Hunter attempted to escape behind his vehicle, but Franklin continued to shoot him. Hunter's two grandchildren were present during the attack.
Following the shooting, Franklin took Hunter's daughter's car keys and fled the scene. He was later arrested in Baltimore, Maryland, and charged with third-degree murder, robbery of a motor vehicle, and reckless endangerment. In June 2023, Franklin pleaded guilty to the charges and was sentenced to 30 to 60 years in prison. The court also ordered Franklin to pay restitution to Hunter's widow to cover funeral costs.
The case was prosecuted by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, which took over jurisdiction in 2022 following a referral from the Bedford County District Attorney's Office. The sentencing brought some closure to Hunter's family, who attended the hearing and shared emotional victim impact statements. Hunter's youngest daughter, Samantha, described Franklin as a "coward of a man" and expressed the deep pain caused by her father's loss. Sheryl Hunter, Brian's widow, described the ongoing nightmare of living without her husband.
Hunter's death left a significant void in the lives of his family and friends, who continue to remember him fondly and honor his memory. The community has rallied around the Hunter family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time.
