On the first of March in 2023, the life of Braxton Lee Phillips, a 23-year-old Black / African American male from De Pere, Wisconsin, was tragically cut short. Emergency services were called to an apartment in Ashwaubenon following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, they discovered Phillips with critical injuries. He was rushed to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after.
The incident, which stemmed from a dispute concerning a romantic relationship, sent ripples of shock and grief through the community.
Braxton, born on February 15, 2000, was remembered as a charismatic, charming, and fiercely loyal young man with a "wildcard personality." A 2018 graduate of West De Pere High School, he loved playing video games, rapping, and various sports. His friends and family described him as a laid-back, chill, and outgoing person who was a good and great friend. His unexpected death left his family devastated as they began the difficult journey of seeking justice for his loss.
The investigation into the shooting quickly led authorities to identify Prez Wade as the primary suspect. In a painful twist, a family member of Phillips revealed that he and Wade had been best friends. Wade was arrested and initially charged with first-degree intentional homicide. As the case progressed, a second individual, Keilana Brunette, was also arrested. She faced charges including being party to first-degree intentional homicide, aiding a felon, and obstructing an investigation for allegedly trying to hide evidence and destroy Wade's phone to help him avoid trouble.
The legal proceedings brought some measure of closure to Braxton's grieving family, who were a constant presence at court hearings, advocating for accountability. In September 2024, Prez Wade was convicted on a reduced homicide charge and was subsequently sentenced to 35 years in prison for his role in Braxton Phillips's death. The case has underscored the tragic consequences of gun violence among young people and the profound impact such events have on families and the wider community.
