PALERMO, Maine — A recently unsealed court affidavit has provided crucial insights into the murder case against Kirby G. Bradford, who is accused of killing 56-year-old Robert Bruso months before his body was discovered outside Bruso’s home.
According to the affidavit, a routine missing-person inquiry evolved into a homicide investigation, revealing a complex narrative involving a friendship that lasted over two decades, a suspicious voicemail, and a meticulously planned crime. Authorities suspect that Bruso may have died as early as February 8, 2025, raising critical questions about why it took so long for his body to be found.
Maine State Police were alerted to Bruso’s absence by friends and family on April 19, 2025, leading them to his home at 128 Boots and Saddle Road, where they discovered his body lying on a snowbank near the driveway. The Office of Chief Medical Examiner later classified the death as a homicide, prompting investigators to delve deeper into Bruso’s final days. However, it wasn’t until September 18 that police formally charged Bradford, who was in custody on unrelated charges at the Kennebec County Jail.
Evidence suggests that the series of events leading to Bruso’s death include an alleged crash alert triggered by Bruso’s cellphone on February 8. When a sheriff’s deputy responded, he found the phone abandoned but encountered an unfamiliar man at the scene, later identified as Bradford. The deputy’s interaction with Bradford culminated in a voicemail from someone claiming to be Bruso, insisting he was ice fishing—a statement friends later deemed uncharacteristic.
Family and friends expressed skepticism over Bradford’s explanations regarding Bruso’s whereabouts. In a notable exchange on social media, Bradford casually referenced Bruso’s supposed romantic interests, a stark contrast to the seriousness of the unfolding concerns. Throughout the investigation, Bradford portrayed himself as a close friend, even assisting with Bruso’s vehicle maintenance just months before.
Financial motives are also scrutinized in the affidavit. Bruso, known to keep substantial cash reserves at home—sometimes up to $50,000—may have made him a target. Witness accounts indicated that Bradford’s struggles with addiction could have compounded any potential motive for foul play.
Investigators uncovered disturbing evidence, including a handwritten note found at Bradford’s workspace with detailed plans related to Bruso’s property. The note outlined several alarming items, such as “stun gun,” “zip ties,” and methods to control Bruso, suggesting premeditation. Additionally, law enforcement discovered a sawed-off shotgun with an obliterated serial number in Bradford’s truck, alongside gloves containing hair that may link him to the crime scene.
As the investigation continued, it became apparent that no immediate signs of foul play had been detected until the welfare check. Questions abound regarding why Bruso’s body remained undiscovered for weeks and what information may be concealed about the hours leading up to his death.
Bradford faces charges of intentional murder and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, both of which he has denied. Legal proceedings have set the stage for separate trials on these charges, while authorities aim to validate evidence tying Bradford to the written plans, voice recordings, and forensic findings.
As of now, a trial date remains unconfirmed, and the ongoing case underscores the complexity of relationships and the weight of silence that can obscure the truth. The investigation continues, revealing a tragic story entangled in years of friendship and betrayal.