A BRUSH WITH DEATH
This unique true-crime YouTube series combines storytelling and artistry, delving into the lives, legacies, and untimely deaths of its subjects. Each episode focuses on a real-life case, as Cayce Hanalei narrates the compelling story of the person’s life while painting their portrait. The series provides a heartfelt and respectful exploration of their achievements, struggles, and the events leading up to their death. The mesmerizing fusion of true crime and art offers a meditative, poignant perspective on the human stories behind the headlines, making it a must-watch for both art enthusiasts and true crime fans alike.
Latest Episode
Episode 27 - Ajike Owens
In this video, I tell the heartbreaking story of Ajike “AJ” Owens — a devoted mother of four whose life was cut short during a confrontation with her neighbor in Ocala, Florida. As I create a tribute drawing in her memory, we’ll dive deep into the true crime details of what really happened that night — the neighborhood dispute, the shooting, and the emotional testimony of her 10-year-old son who witnessed it all. But this isn’t just a tragic story — it’s a powerful lens into racial bias, Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, and the justice system’s long-standing disparities. Why did it take four days to arrest the shooter? Why are Black victims so often denied justice when the shooter claims “self-defense”? And what does this case say about America today?