Tommie Montray Thornton, 34, was shot and killed in Tulia, Texas, in the early hours of January 6, 2023. Officers who arrived at the scene around 2:45 a.m. found Thornton suffering from gunshot wounds; despite life-saving efforts by officers and EMS, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The Tulia Police Department has identified a suspect and is working with the Texas Rangers on the investigation, but no arrests have been reported and the case remains active.

Thornton, born September 15, 1988, is remembered by family and the community for his luminous smile and as a peacemaker among his peers. He is survived by his parents, his children, and numerous siblings, who continue to mourn his loss. Anyone with information about the shooting is asked to contact the Tulia Police Department to help bring closure to the family.