Unsolved homicide of father of two in East Austin

It has been more than a month since a father of two was left to die on the side of a road in East Austin and detectives and his family want answers.

"I never thought I'd go through this you know. I never imagined this to be in my plans in my life,” said Phillis Braxton.

Mother Phillis Braxton is grieving the loss of her son, 30-year-old Brandon Demond Grant. His body was found along Johnny Morris Road near Garcia Middle School around 1 a.m. July 16th.

"A passing motorist actually came by and discovered him in the roadway,” said Braxton.

Detective Ray Tynes says there was obvious signs of trauma--not caused by a traffic incident.

"All he told me is he would be back and never did come back,” said Braxton.

Grant was with Braxton at her North Austin home hours before the crime. She feels he knew his killer.

"He had a good heart and he loved his friends, but one thing about Brandon he was a little too trusting in people and I think that's what got him in trouble this time,” said Braxton.

Braxton wants to know what happened to her son and time is of the essence. She has terminal cancer.

"He was my helper. He helped me with everything. The driving, so they basically took my son away and they took my help,” said Braxton.

In addition to her loss, grant leaves behind two sons who are seven and eight.

On Thursday Detective Tynes hung posters around the murder scene soliciting tips.

"A mom should never have to bury their child,” said Grant’s sister Jessica White. "It would be amazing if we could have someone come forward if they know anything just so we have peace of mind."

For Braxton, the hope is that someone will come forward sooner than later.

"I just hope it doesn't take me before I find out what happened to my son,” said Braxton.

A $1,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspect. Call the APD Homicide Tipline at 512-477-3588.