Keith Vernon Thomas, aged 53, tragically lost his life on July 2, 2015, in Cottonwood, California. Keith was a beloved member of his community, known for his generosity and love for the outdoors. He was a master wood-craftsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family. Keith's life was cut short in a violent incident that also claimed the life of his daughter, Kimberlee Anne Thomas, aged 29.
The incident occurred in the Lake California community near the Country Store, where both Keith and Kimberlee were fatally shot.
The perpetrator of this heinous crime was identified as John Wayne Noonkester, the ex-husband of Kimberlee Anne Thomas. Noonkester was arrested at the scene and charged with two counts of murder and one count of attempted premeditated murder. The motive behind the shooting was linked to a custody exchange involving Noonkester and Kimberlee's two young daughters. Text messages and other evidence presented during the trial revealed that Noonkester had been harboring violent fantasies about killing Kimberlee, which he eventually acted upon.
The trial of John Wayne Noonkester was a significant event in Tehama County. The prosecution, led by Deputy District Attorney James Waugh, argued that Noonkester's actions were premeditated and deliberate. Surveillance footage and text messages were crucial pieces of evidence that demonstrated Noonkester's intent to commit the murders. The defense, however, contended that Noonkester's actions were not calculated but rather a result of his desire to protect his children from what he perceived as a harmful environment.
In October 2017, after a tense and emotional trial, Noonkester was found guilty of the first-degree murders of Keith Vernon Thomas and Kimberlee Anne Thomas. The jury's verdict brought some measure of justice to the grieving family and community. The case highlighted the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of addressing such issues before they escalate to tragic outcomes.
