In the early morning hours of January 23, 2009, the life of 26-year-old Brad Harris was tragically cut short in his Franklin, Virginia home. A single gunshot, fired from outside his Darden Street residence, penetrated his bedroom and ended his life. The sudden and violent nature of his death sent shockwaves through the community and launched a thorough investigation by local law enforcement.
The investigation into the shooting of Brad Harris, a male native of Hertford County, soon pointed to suspects outside of the immediate area. This led authorities to North Carolina, where two men were eventually apprehended and charged with first-degree murder in connection with the fatal shooting. The arrests brought a sense of progress in the quest for justice for Harris and his grieving family, which included his parents, Emery Wright and Lavern Wade, his daughter Elily, two brothers, and a sister.
One of the men arrested, 40-year-old Rockne Butler, was ultimately convicted for the murder of Brad Harris and sentenced to life in prison. The case, however, saw a dramatic turn even after the conviction. New evidence emerged when an individual named Jonquil L. Baker, who was incarcerated for gang-related activities, came forward with new information. Baker claimed to have been present when Butler allegedly confessed to the murder to a jailhouse barber.
This new testimony prompted a legal challenge, with the possibility of a new trial for the convicted Butler. However, after careful consideration, the presiding judge denied the motion for a new trial. The judge raised questions about the credibility of the new witness and also cited the potential cost to the county of undertaking another prosecution. Thus, Rockne Butler's conviction and life sentence for the murder of Brad Harris were upheld, closing a complex and emotional chapter for all involved.
