TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - One month ago, tragedy struck Tallahassee when Fire Captain Brad Deanda was hit and killed by a truck on County Road 259. On Thursday, the St. John Paul II boys basketball team celebrated senior night, and Brad's eldest son Bradley is one of five seniors on the Panther squad.
Bradley was surrounded by his two families at the pregame festivities, his mom and brother, as well as many of the firemen who've been by their side throughout.
"I think it was important for us as part of the healing process, to be there, even though he couldn't be there," said Fire Chief Jerome Gaines. "To be there in his place, to let him know, let his son know that he's a part of the family and he's not forgotten, his dad will always be remembered."
"Bradley did not know they were coming," said mom Sharla. "They've been beyond special for 24 years, and they have continued over and over and over again to be with us through every single part of this journey."
St. John Paul II fell to Maclay in their senior night game 60-57.
