Bradley McNew Obituary, Death: Off-Duty Jacksonville Corrections Officer Bradley McNew Tragically Killed in Shooting at Love’s Travel Stop on Duval Road
Bradley McNew Obituary, Death: Off-Duty Jacksonville Corrections Officer Bradley McNew Tragically Killed in Shooting at Love’s Travel Stop on Duval Road, Suspect Demaurea Leon Grant Arrested in North Carolina Following Nationwide BOLO; Investigation Into Senseless Murder Continues
In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has shaken the law enforcement community and the public alike, 34-year-old Bradley McNew, an off-duty Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) corrections officer, was killed in a senseless shooting that took place at a Love’s Travel Stop on Duval Road in Jacksonville, Florida. The horrifying incident, which occurred on the night of October 12, 2024, has left McNew’s family, colleagues, and community grieving the loss of a man who was described as dedicated, loyal, and compassionate. His sudden and violent death has sparked outrage and deep sorrow, and a nationwide manhunt for the suspect resulted in the apprehension of 29-year-old Demaurea Leon Grant in Gaston County, North Carolina, just two days after the crime.
The news of Bradley McNew’s death sent shockwaves throughout the Jacksonville area and beyond, as friends, family, and fellow law enforcement officers struggled to come to terms with the loss of a beloved colleague and friend. Known for his commitment to serving his community, McNew had worked as a corrections officer with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for several years, earning the respect and admiration of his peers. His untimely death, occurring while he was off-duty, is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers, even when they are not in uniform.
The tragedy unfolded late in the evening when McNew, who had been at the Love’s Travel Stop on Duval Road, was shot and killed in what authorities have described as a sudden and unprovoked attack. Witnesses at the scene reported hearing gunshots before seeing the suspect flee in a black Mustang with North Carolina plates. As law enforcement descended on the area, it quickly became apparent that one of their own had been taken from them. Despite the immediate response from first responders, McNew succumbed to his injuries at the scene, leaving a void in the lives of those who knew and loved him.
In the hours following the shooting, authorities issued a nationwide BOLO (Be On the Lookout) for the suspect and his vehicle, determined to bring the person responsible for this heinous act to justice. Investigators worked tirelessly to piece together the events leading up to the shooting, reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and coordinating with law enforcement agencies across state lines. The swift and coordinated response ultimately led to the arrest of 29-year-old Demaurea Leon Grant in Gaston County, North Carolina, just two days after the shooting.
Grant, who was apprehended without incident, is now being held without bond as he awaits extradition to Florida, where he will face charges for the murder of Officer McNew. His arrest has brought some measure of relief to McNew’s grieving family and the law enforcement community, but the pain of losing a dedicated officer in such a senseless manner remains overwhelming. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the motive behind the shooting, though initial reports suggest that McNew may have been targeted at random.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of Officer McNew, with Sheriff T.K. Waters issuing a statement praising McNew’s service and dedication to the department. “Brad was a true professional who gave his all to this department and to the people of Jacksonville,” Waters said. “He was well-liked by his colleagues and known for his work ethic, his sense of duty, and his kindness. His death is a devastating loss for all of us, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.”
McNew’s family, who had been notified of his death shortly after the incident, is now left to mourn the loss of a son, brother, and friend who was taken from them far too soon. In a statement released by the family, they described McNew as a “kind and loving man” who had always dreamed of serving in law enforcement. “Brad was more than just an officer—he was a protector, a friend, and someone who always put others first,” the family’s statement read. “We cannot express the depth of our grief, but we are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community and the dedication of the law enforcement officers who worked so hard to bring his killer to justice.”
The community’s response to McNew’s death has been one of profound sadness and support. Vigils have been organized to honor his memory, with hundreds of people gathering to pay their respects to the fallen officer. Many of his colleagues have shared stories of McNew’s kindness and his unwavering commitment to his job, recalling how he would go out of his way to help others, whether it was a fellow officer in need or a member of the community. His loss has left an indelible mark on all who knew him, and his absence will be felt for years to come.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials are focused on ensuring that Grant is brought to justice and held accountable for his actions. The arrest of Grant, while a significant step toward justice, does little to ease the pain felt by McNew’s family and friends, who are left to grapple with the senselessness of the crime. Grant’s history and possible motives remain under scrutiny as investigators dig deeper into his background, looking for any clues that might explain why he would commit such a violent act.
In the wake of McNew’s death, the law enforcement community has come together to offer support not only to his family but to one another. The loss of a fellow officer is always a difficult burden to bear, but the outpouring of solidarity from departments across the country has provided a measure of comfort. Officers from neighboring agencies have stepped in to assist with day-to-day operations, allowing McNew’s colleagues to grieve without worrying about their duties.
In the coming days, funeral arrangements will be made for Officer McNew, and it is expected that law enforcement officers from across the country will gather to honor his memory. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has indicated that they will be holding a memorial service, where McNew’s life and service will be celebrated, and his sacrifice remembered. The public is expected to be invited to attend, as the community continues to mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant who was taken too soon.
As the city of Jacksonville grieves, many are left to reflect on the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day, even when they are off-duty. McNew’s death serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving others. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his legacy of service will continue to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
In the meantime, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and other law enforcement agencies will continue to pursue justice for Officer McNew, ensuring that his death is not in vain. The case against Demaurea Leon Grant will likely move forward in the coming weeks, with extradition proceedings already underway. As the legal process unfolds, the community will undoubtedly continue to rally around McNew’s family, offering their prayers, love, and support.
The loss of Bradley McNew is a tragedy that will not soon be forgotten. His dedication to his job, his kindness, and his love for his community made him a respected and cherished figure in Jacksonville. As his family, friends, and colleagues come together to honor his life, they will remember not only the way he lived but the way he served, with honor, courage, and an unwavering sense of duty. Rest in peace, Officer McNew. Your community will never forget your sacrifice.
