Brenda Maxie Hardiman, a 50-year-old woman of African American ethnicity, tragically lost her life on January 11, 2016, in Redwater, Texas. Brenda was fatally shot in her home by a 16-year-old boy named Phillip McBride. The incident occurred when McBride, armed with a shotgun, fired randomly into Brenda's home, striking her and causing her death. Brenda's husband, Levester Hardiman, and his 92-year-old mother were also present in the home at the time, along with the elderly woman's nurse.
Phillip McBride was later arrested and charged with murder. He led law enforcement on a high-speed chase before being apprehended. Due to a psychologist's finding that McBride did not meet the standards required for certification as an adult offender, his case was resolved in juvenile court. McBride received the maximum punishment a juvenile can, which amounted to 40 years in juvenile detention. In addition to murder, he pleaded guilty to evading arrest with a vehicle, unauthorized use of a vehicle, residential burglary, and assault on a peace officer.
The tragic death of Brenda Hardiman led to significant legal proceedings and a lengthy investigation. The case highlighted issues related to juvenile justice and the handling of violent crimes committed by minors. McBride's case was brought before a Bowie County district judge, who will determine around his 19th birthday whether he will be transferred to a unit of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to serve the remainder of his term.
Brenda Hardiman's death left a lasting impact on her family and the community of Redwater, Texas. Her funeral was held on January 16, 2016, at Saint Paul C.M.E. Church, with burial following at Pinegrove Cemetery.
