David Edens Jr. Killed By The Mother of His Child in Greenville South Carolina

On November 19, 2019, a tragic act of domestic violence occurred at a Motel 6 in Greenville, South Carolina, when 22-year-old David Edens Jr. was shot and killed by his ex-girlfriend, Kodesha Lyuna Bryson. The crime shocked the local community, leaving two families devastated and a young child without her parents.

David Edens Jr. was described as a devoted father, son, and brother, while Bryson, 25 at the time, was the mother of their 1-year-old daughter. What led to the fatal confrontation remains a heartbreaking tale of escalating emotions, unresolved conflicts, and a moment of irreversible violence.

This article delves into who David Edens Jr. was, the relationship between him and Bryson, the events leading up to the murder, the investigation and arrest, the legal proceedings, and the lasting impact on the families involved.

Who Was David Edens Jr.?

David Marquise Duke Edens Jr. was born on April 22, 1997, in Greenville, South Carolina. He was the beloved son of David Edens and Sherita Gory and a father to two children, Kalonni and Ameire Edens.

David’s family and friends described him as:

• Loving and devoted to his children
• A hardworking young man with dreams for his future
• A caring brother and son who valued family above all

He grew up in Greenville and had a tight-knit relationship with his family, especially his siblings, grandparents, and extended relatives. Despite being young, he embraced fatherhood and had been making efforts to provide a stable life for his daughter.

However, his relationship with Kodesha Lyuna Bryson was tumultuous, and their conflicts would ultimately lead to a fatal encounter at a motel room.

Who Was Kodesha Lyuna Bryson?

Kodesha Lyuna Bryson, 25 at the time of the incident, had been in an on-again, off-again relationship with David Edens Jr. The couple shared a one-year-old daughter, but their relationship had been filled with disputes, separations, and unresolved conflicts.

Reports suggest that Bryson had a history of aggressive behavior, and their relationship had been strained for some time. On the night of November 19, 2019, tensions boiled over into a violent confrontation, leading to David’s death.

The Events Leading Up to the Murder

On November 19, 2019, Kodesha Bryson went to a Motel 6 on Wade Hampton Boulevard in Greenville, where David Edens Jr. was staying.

Eyewitness accounts and police reports indicate the following chain of events:

• Bryson arrived at the motel, visibly upset and agitated
• She smashed a motel window while searching for David
• A confrontation occurred inside the motel room
• She shot David, fatally wounding him

Following the shooting, Bryson fled the scene but later turned herself in to law enforcement.

The Crime Scene and Police Response

Police arrived at the Motel 6 shortly after witnesses reported gunshots. Upon entering the room, they discovered:

• David Edens Jr. deceased from a gunshot wound
• Broken glass from the motel window Bryson had smashed
• A chaotic scene suggesting a struggle took place before the shooting

Investigators quickly identified Kodesha Bryson as the prime suspect. The following morning, she turned herself in to authorities, leading to her immediate arrest.

The Arrest and Charges Against Bryson

After surrendering to the police, Bryson was formally charged with:

• Murder
• Possession of a weapon during a violent crime
• Malicious damage

Her arrest shocked both families. During her bond hearing, Bryson was visibly emotional, crying as she addressed David Edens Jr.’s grieving family.

“I love y’all. I’m sorry. The gun went off. I would never try to hurt him. He’s a great dad. I’m sorry.”

Despite her apology, the judge denied bond due to the severity of the charges, meaning she would remain in jail until trial.

Family Reactions and Grief

The murder of David Edens Jr. left his family devastated.

His father, David Edens Sr., expressed sorrow over losing his son and concern for the 1-year-old daughter left behind:

“Now my son is gone, but the real concern is for their child. No one wins in this situation.”

His cousin, Louise Baldwin, also struggled with the tragedy, saying:

“I just want to know why. Why did she do this?”

The crime not only took David’s life, but it also forever changed the lives of his daughter, parents, and siblings.

Legal Proceedings and Trial

Following her arrest and bond denial, Bryson faced a lengthy legal battle. The prosecution aimed to secure a conviction for murder, emphasizing that:

• She actively sought out David at the motel.
• She broke windows and forced her way inside.
• The shooting was intentional, not accidental.

Her defense team argued that she had no premeditated intent and that the shooting happened in the heat of the moment.

As of now, she remains in custody pending further legal proceedings.

The Aftermath and Community Impact

The murder of David Edens Jr. sent shockwaves through the Greenville community.

Several issues were highlighted:

• Domestic violence and conflict resolution – This case reinforced the importance of recognizing warning signs in troubled relationships.
• Gun violence and access to firearms – The use of a gun in the crime raised concerns about firearm access and responsibility.
• The impact on children – The 1-year-old daughter lost both parents in one tragic night.

In the wake of David’s death, his family and friends have continued to honor his memory, ensuring his children grow up knowing about their father’s love.

Remembering David Edens Jr.

David was laid to rest on November 30, 2019, with a funeral service at Watkins, Garrett & Woods Mortuary. He was buried at Pinedale Memorial Park in Piedmont, SC.

His obituary highlighted:

• His love for his children
• His dedication to family
• The legacy he left behind

Family members have since worked to keep his memory alive through tributes, photos, and messages of remembrance.

Conclusion

The murder of David Edens Jr. on November 19, 2019, in Greenville, South Carolina, was a heartbreaking case of domestic violence that left a family grieving, a child without parents, and a community in shock.

While Kodesha Bryson remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings, the pain and loss endured by David’s loved ones will last a lifetime.

This tragic story serves as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked conflict, emphasizing the importance of seeking help, recognizing warning signs, and ensuring that violence is never the answer.