On May 2, 2023, in El Dorado, Arkansas, 63-year-old Thomas Lockett was found dead in his family home on West Wesson Street; authorities have classified his death as a homicide. The call that brought police to the residence came from his 41-year-old nephew, Lance Lockett, who admitted to killing someone at the house.

Officers from the El Dorado Police Department and the Union County Sheriff’s Office encountered a volatile scene. Lance Lockett was reportedly armed with a rifle, and after officers arrived he moved toward them and fired. Deputies gave repeated commands to drop the weapon, and one deputy shot and fatally wounded Lance Lockett. The subsequent investigation determined the deputy’s use of force complied with departmental policy.

Thomas Lockett is remembered by family as having a quiet spirit and a bright smile. Anyone with information about Thomas, his movements that day, or the household is asked to come forward.