John Robert Thomas was found murdered at the intersection of Washington Street and Broadway Avenue in Lake City on December 9th, 2001. The report had come in right before 5am. He had been shot in the face. There was also signs that he may have also been robbed after he was killed. He died at the scene.
Shortly after his death, a car that belonged to his roommate was set on fire in Live Oak. Prior to this, John had asked his roommate if he could borrow his car and was allowed to. The fire was likely set ablaze so that evidence pertaining to this murder would be concealed.
A woman was identified as the person of interest; however, due to lack of cooperation, the state had to let her go with no charges. She still faces murder charges if probable cause can be established.
John was a good kid, and according to his mother Nancy Fasset Thomas, John loved to play baseball and truly loved sports. He was also the grandson of County Commissioner Ludie Shipp, who we featured on the Facebook page discussing his contributions to convenience store safety. Had it not been for us publishing that story and a family member reaching out, we would not have known about this case.
The investigation is still open, and is being handled by Sgt. Robert Milligan of the Lake City Police Department.
If you have any information pertaining to the murder of John Robert Thomas, contact the Lake City Police Department, Sgt. Robert Milligan at 386-752-4344.
ADDITIONALLY, A REWARD OF UP TO $1000 IS BEING OFFERED IN THIS CASE THANKS TO CRIME STOPPERS OF COLUMBIA COUNTY! YOU WILL REMAIN ANONYMOUS, AND YOU WILL NOT HAVE TO TESTIFY IN COURT, SHOULD THERE BE A TRIAL! YOU CAN REACH CRIME STOPPERS AT 386-754-7099!