In the late summer of 2018, the life of Francisco Javier 'Fran' Borquez, a 29-year-old man of Chilean ethnicity, was tragically cut short in Elizabethton, Tennessee. Born in Valparaiso, Chile, Borquez was a father to two daughters who were the center of his world. He was known for his passion for a healthy lifestyle, his love for the outdoors, and his work as an independent contractor in the construction field. Friends and family remember him as someone who loved to make people laugh and was always ready to be involved in projects.
On Sunday, August 26, 2018, Borquez went to the residence of an acquaintance, Chasen Brooks Julian. His purpose was to speak with the mother of his youngest child, who was one year old at the time. An altercation broke out between Borquez and Julian, which escalated with devastating swiftness. During the confrontation, Julian discharged a Glock. 40 caliber handgun, and a single bullet struck Borquez in the chest. Emergency medical services were called to the scene, and Borquez was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of his injuries. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to the gunshot wound and passed away.
The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation launched an inquiry into the shooting death of Francisco Borquez. After a thorough investigation, the case was presented to a Carter County Grand Jury on July 8, 2019. The grand jury reviewed the evidence and heard testimony from the investigating agents. After deliberation, they returned a 'no true determination.' This legal finding indicated that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with criminal charges against Chasen Brooks Julian. As a result, no arrests were made, and the official inquiry into the death of Francisco Borquez was closed.
