Tennessee man sentenced to life for brutal honeymoon murder at Fiji resort
(EPICSTORIAN) — A Tennessee man will spend the rest of his life behind bars in Fiji after being convicted of murdering his wife during their honeymoon at a luxury island resort.
Bradley Dawson, 40, was found guilty in December 2024 of killing his wife, Christe Chen, 36, during their stay at Turtle Island Resort in 2022.
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A Fijian court sentenced him to life in prison, requiring him to serve at least 18 years before parole eligibility, according to The Fiji Times.
Court Details and Evidence
The eight-day trial revealed that Dawson caused Chen’s death while they were in their villa. Justice Riyaz Hamza ruled that Dawson acted with intent or reckless disregard for her life. Resort employees reported hearing an argument between the couple the night before Chen’s body was found.
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She suffered multiple blunt-force trauma injuries. Her wounds were so severe that embalming was not possible, and her remains had to be cremated before returning to the United States, according to an attorney representing her family.
Failed Escape and Arrest
Dawson left the resort by kayak, reaching a neighboring island. Authorities tracked him down 36 hours later, discovering he had taken his passport and other belongings, leading investigators to conclude he intended to flee.
Justice Hamza condemned Dawson’s actions, stating:
“Your conduct after the incident was appalling. Having inflicted serious and life-threatening injuries, you fled the scene, leaving the deceased alone and helpless.”
Legal Consequences
Fijian law mandates life imprisonment for murder, though parole eligibility varies. The judge’s ruling ensures Dawson will not be considered for release until he has served nearly two decades.
