BROCKTON, Mass. — Authorities are investigating the death of a 28-year-old man who was struck by an SUV following a confrontation outside a restaurant in Brockton early Sunday morning.
Officers responding just before 4 a.m. discovered Lianes Brandao lying in the parking lot of Cardoso Cafe near the intersection of Lincoln Street and West Railroad Avenue. He was initially taken to a local hospital and later airlifted to a Boston medical facility, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Preliminary findings indicate that Brandao had been involved in a physical altercation with several individuals in the parking lot shortly before the incident. Surveillance and witness-recorded video reportedly show the fight taking place prior to the fatal crash. The individuals involved in the confrontation left the scene.
At some point afterward, Brandao was struck by a 2013 gray Jeep Compass. Investigators are still working to determine how much time elapsed between the altercation and when the vehicle hit him.
The SUV left the scene following the collision. Police later interviewed the driver at the Brockton Police Department as part of the ongoing investigation. Officials have not yet announced whether charges will be filed.
Family members and friends gathered at the site of the incident, placing flowers and candles in remembrance. Loved ones described Brandao as a devoted family member with a bright future ahead of him.
Relatives say they are determined to seek answers regarding the circumstances that led to his death and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause and manner of death. Authorities continue to investigate and are asking witnesses or anyone with relevant information to contact law enforcement.
