Body of missing teen found after intense search

Authorities say teen took his own life after run-in with the law

By DONALD WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The search for a missing teen ends in tragedy after the St. Francis County Sheriff’s Office announced that the body of 14-year-old Tripp Brazeale was found late Monday afternoon, confirming that he had taken his own life.

Tripp’s parents had been pleading for help in locating their son, who was last seen entering a wooded area off St. Francis County Road 409 around 1 a.m. on Sunday. The Brazeales reported that Tripp was being pursued by St. Francis County deputies after allegedly illegally riding on prohibited roads. During the pursuit his four-wheeler suddenly stalled and in a panic, he climbed over a barbed-wire fence and ran into the woods.

After Tripp called his mother on his cell phone, she drove to the location to pick him up. Upon arrival, she found that deputies were still on the scene, but her son was missing. It was believed that he may have tried to return to the spot where he left his four-wheeler, but when he realized it was gone or authorities were still present, he continued deeper into the woods.

The deputies had already taken possession of the four-wheeler when the Brazeales discovered Tripp’s boot and a hoodie containing his cell phone and wallet about a quarter of a mile away near Crowley’s Ridge. Trip had initially lost one boot and his hat when jumping the fence. A significant search effort ensued, involving 15 to 20 game wardens, state troopers, and approximately 200 volunteers. Unfortunately, their efforts now appear to have been in vain.

In a statement on social media Tripp’s uncle, Greg Brazeale, made the following statement, “I just want everyone that was involved in searching for Tripp to know how much our family appreciated y’all for everything y’all did, as y’all know it was not easy terrain for a search, we may not all see eye to eye all the time, but when the shit hits the fan our community of St. Francis and Cross counties come together and get it done. Just know y’all will be forever in our hearts. This is to all Law enforcement as well y’all went above and beyond, and showed what ‘to protect and serve’ means! Especially to Arkansas State trooper Stevie Roberts and Arkansas Game and Fish officer Rodney Meyers not only are y’all great officers you are great people, professional but very compassionate, not to mention great friends.”

Tripp was described by friends as hardworking, honest, resilient and a good friend.

Tripp, 14, will be sorely missed by family and friends.

Photo via Facebook