Country music star Randy Travis is deeply mourning the loss of his long-time stagehand, Thom Roberts. According to police, Roberts was tragically shot dead by his wife in a shocking turn of events.
The heartbreaking incident took place on Monday, July 10. Nashville police reports indicate that Roberts, 68, was fatally shot by his wife, Christine, 72, at their home.
Fox News reported that emergency services were called to their home on Howard Avenue at around 8pm in response to the tragic event.
The arrest affidavit shared with the news outlet reveals that Christine confessed to the police, claiming she shot her husband because she believed he had been unfaithful. A concerned neighbor, who heard the gunshot, rushed to the scene to find out what had transpired.
According to NBC, the neighbor immediately called 911 upon finding Roberts lying on the porch. Further details in the affidavit state that Christine admitted to the neighbor that she had shot her husband after discovering his alleged infidelity.
Sadly, Roberts was declared dead at the scene due to a gunshot wound to the chest. Christine has been charged with criminal homicide, and her bond is set at $100,000, according to court documents.
In the aftermath of this tragic event, Randy Travis took to his Facebook page to share his sorrow and pay tribute to his dear friend Thom Roberts. He expressed his grief with these heartfelt words: “The stage has gone dim with the passing of Thom Roberts. For many years, the Randy Travis band and crew had the opportunity to share the winding roads and the beautiful venues with one of the very best stage lighting technicians in the business.”
Travis went on to describe Roberts as a man with a magical touch for stage lighting and a gentle, charismatic demeanor that warmed the hearts of everyone around him. He left his friends and colleagues with warm memories and an undying respect for his kindness and skill. Travis added, “Thom not only had a magical sense about lighting a stage; but, he had a quiet, charismatic presence that ignited your soul. Always willing, with a ‘can do’ and ‘happy to do it’ attitude. He was a gentle giant of a man that wore a constant smile on his face and carried a song in his heart. One would search a lifetime to find a kinder, gentler spirit. Thom was my friend and I loved him dearly.”
Travis concluded his heartfelt post with a touching note: “Tonight, I will look toward heaven and am sure I will see flashes of Thom’s handiwork in the night sky—letting us know he is home, and all is well.”
Travis is set to resume his ‘More Life’ tour next week, yet he will be doing so without his trusted stagehand by his side.
Christine Roberts is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, July 12.
At this devastating time, our thoughts and prayers are with Thom Roberts’ family and friends.
