BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ( WBRC ) - Wednesday was an emotional day for the family of Braylen Hardy. Police say Hardy died after Antonio Weldon Jr. struck him while he was sitting on his ATV .

Weldon appeared in court Wednesday morning, Sept. 3.

More than a dozen people showed up at the hearing, clearly demonstrating how much Braylen Hardy was loved.

His family said they miss him deeply and are committed to seeking justice.

“Long live Bray,” several family members said as they left the preliminary hearing for Weldon, who investigators say hit Hardy on Oct. 26, 2024. Witnesses and a police report said Weldon was speeding and crossed lanes into oncoming traffic before striking the 13-year-old. Police say Weldon then fled the scene on foot.

Shawna Farness, Hardy’s godmother, called the trag

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