Hulett family marks son's birthday by again pleading for justice
TAMPA, Fla. - He would have turned 16 years old February 18 but instead of throwing a party, Bradley Hulett’s loved ones are demanding justice.
The Hillsborough County teen was shot and killed while playing video games at the home of a Tampa police officer. More than two months later, no one has been arrested or charged.
It was a somber way to celebrate. Messages of love, sadness and birthday wishes for Bradley written on balloons. Tuesday, he would have turned 16. They let go of the strings, but it’s too soon to let go of the pain.
“He was so excited to get his driver’s license; he was so excited to turn 16,” said Meagan Hulett.
Just another milestone for the Hulett family, filled with sadness and also support from loved ones, and even strangers.
“Most of them I’ve never met, and it’s just awesome,” Brad Hulett said.
Bradley was killed on December 13 while hanging out with three friends at the home of Tampa PD officer Edwin Perez.
“My son’s sitting, playing video games with headphones on, and getting shot in the back of the head,” said Meagan. “Which is really what happened, there’s no disputing that fact.”
Bradley’s parents say Perez and the teens immediately lawyered up, and only two have spoken with authorities, slowing down the investigation.
TPD Officer Edwin Perez
It's a tough reality to swallow for a family who thought Bradley was in the company of close friends.
“They have to get a subpoena before they will tell what happened, and it's betrayal to me, that's how it feels to me, like kicking you while you're down," explained Meagan.
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Loved ones say they will keep fighting for answers, and justice for Bradley.
“My son did nothing wrong that day, I’m pretty certain that’s the case,” Brad said. “And I think he got a death sentence for no reason because of other people’s negligence, and I think they need to step up and they need to admit what they did and tell the truth, and let’s move on. Enough is enough.”
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office turned the case over to the State Attorney’s Office nearly two-weeks ago. Last week the office released a statement indicating more investigation is needed to figure out exactly what happened, but also didn’t rule out someone being charged.