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February 28, 2013

Man’s death still ‘suspicious,’ possible homicide

By JOSH NEWTON Staff Writer

TAHLEQUAH — Investigators are continuing to follow leads in a case that could eventually be listed as Cherokee County’s first homicide of 2013.

Bradford Brooks, 56, was found dead outside of his home on Wednesday morning, Feb. 20. Cherokee County Sheriff’s Capt. Bob Sanders said investigators first believed Brooks – a disabled veteran with health issues – might have died as a result of a medical problem.

That idea is still one possibility, Sanders said, but evidence at the scene suggests foul play might be involved.

Sanders said authorities believe Brooks may have been assaulted. His death has been labeled “suspicious” by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

Brooks had suffered injuries to his face, and blood was found in several places inside his Cookson-area home.

His clothed body was found outside of his trailer by a family member. Sanders said Brooks wasn’t wearing shoes or socks on a day when Cherokee County was being blanketed in snowfall.

Investigators with the OSBI were called in to assist at the scene. Sanders said authorities are still awaiting information from the state medical examiner, but they will continue to treat the case as a possible homicide.

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