Memphis man found guilty of murdering wife on honeymoon in Fiji

In 2022, a tragic incident unfolded on an exclusive resort in Fiji where a Memphis man, Bradley Robert Dawson, was charged with murdering his wife, Christe Chen, during their honeymoon. The couple had arrived at the Turtle Island resort just days before the murder, which took place in their room after a reported argument. Resort staff discovered Chen's body, displaying multiple blunt trauma wounds, after she failed to appear for meals. Witnesses noted the couple's altercation the preceding night, establishing a tense atmosphere leading to the fatal incident. During the trial, the prosecution argued that Dawson’s actions showed premeditation, especially as he attempted to escape by kayak after the murder. Justice Riyaz Hamza assessed the evidence and concluded beyond reasonable doubt that Dawson was responsible. The judge highlighted that Dawson was found with his passport and belongings, suggesting he had planned to flee the scene of the crime. Dawson has no prior criminal history in Shelby County, but this incident has drastically altered the narrative of his life and public perception. Dawson remains in custody and is expected to be sentenced to life in prison in January, following Fiji’s legal procedures which may allow for a minimum term before consideration of a pardon. Meanwhile, the devastation brought upon Chen's family is profound; her remains, badly damaged due to the circumstances, were cremated as they could not be embalmed for transportation back to the United States. Legal representative Ronald Gordon has previously conveyed the family’s anguish over losing their daughter in such a violent and tragic manner. Chen, aged 36 and a dedicated professional who had recently transitioned from working as a pastry chef to a pharmacist, became a victim of a crime that shocked many, particularly against the idyllic backdrop of their honeymoon in a tropical paradise. Her life and hopes have been painfully cut short, leaving her family to cope with the loss of their beloved daughter, whose aspirations were so tragically dashed within such a brief time frame of celebration.