Thomas Deon Braden Death – A man in Columbia was taken into custody on Monday following allegations that he intentionally struck another individual with his vehicle after a dispute, resulting in the victim’s death.
Gerardo Mendoza-Rodriquez, aged 39, faces charges of first-degree murder and aggravated assault resulting in death. Additionally, he was charged with driving on a suspended license.
The Columbia Police Department was summoned to 1129 Trotwood Avenue around 7:15 a.m. on Monday in response to reports of a male found lying on the ground.
Upon arrival, responding officers identified the injured and unresponsive individual as 51-year-old Thomas Deon Braden, who was located in the parking lot.
Despite attempts by medical personnel to revive him, Braden was pronounced deceased at the scene, according to police reports.
Preliminary findings from the investigation revealed that an altercation had ensued between Braden and Mendoza-Rodriquez before the fatal collision occurred. Allegedly, Braden attempted to disengage from the altercation by walking away, prompting Mendoza-Rodriquez to deliberately strike him with his vehicle.
Individuals who may have witnessed the incident are urged to reach out to the Columbia Police Department at 931-388-2727.
