On June 19, 2017, 24-year-old Alexander Brodigan was found dead inside a parked car outside North Gresham Grade School in Gresham, Oregon. The incident occurred in the early morning hours, and it was later revealed that Brodigan's death was a result of a violent confrontation over marijuana.
According to court documents and police investigations, Brodigan was killed when he refused to hand over some marijuana.
The incident was part of a larger plan by a group of individuals to 'hit a lick,' or to quickly obtain a significant amount of money or valuables. This plan, orchestrated by one of the suspects, involved targeting Brodigan for his marijuana.
Four individuals were arrested in connection with Brodigan's murder. One of the key suspects identified was Austin Nathaniel Brown, a 21-year-old who was ultimately convicted of the crime. Brown was the one who shot Alexander Brodigan in the face, leading to his death. On October 22, 2018, Brown was sentenced to 20 years in prison for his role in the murder.
In addition to Brown, other suspects were also implicated in the crime. Tyler Mead and Amber Wilson were initially charged with aiding and abetting in connection with Brodigan's murder. However, their charges were later dismissed. The reasons for the dismissal of their charges were not specified in the available reports.
The investigation and subsequent arrests highlighted the involvement of multiple individuals in the planning and execution of the crime. The motive, as established through the probable cause affidavit, was centered around the group's intention to obtain marijuana and money quickly, which led to the tragic and fatal confrontation with Brodigan.
Brodigan's death was deeply felt by his family and community, as he was a father to a newborn baby at the time of his murder. A vigil was held in his honor, reflecting the community's grief and outrage over the senseless violence that led to his death.
