In the warm desert city of Tucson, Arizona, a life was tragically cut short on the Fourth of July in 2018. Wade E. Lockwood, a 53-year-old man, died in a violent encounter at his apartment complex. His death was the result of a fatal gunshot wound inflicted by his neighbor, marking a somber end to a day of national celebration.
Originally from Hinsdale, New York, Wade had built a life of service and varied experiences.
Born on August 4, 1964, he was a graduate of Hinsdale Central School and its BOCES welding program. His commitment to serving his country was evident through his active duty in the U.S. Army from 1984 to 1987, followed by service in the Army Reserves until his honorable discharge in 1996. His career path was diverse, including work at the Olean Filtration Plant and St. Bonaventure University. Seeking new opportunities, he relocated to Georgia in 1997, where he worked in various nursing homes for 14 years. Eventually, he settled in Tucson, where he was employed by the Veterans Administration Hospital at the time of his passing.
The events that led to his untimely death unfolded during a visit to his neighbor, Gregory Walters. An altercation erupted between the two men, culminating in the fatal shooting. When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they discovered Wade deceased on the floor of Walters' apartment, having sustained gunshot wounds. The neighbor, a 56-year-old man, was immediately taken into custody by the Tucson Police Department.
Following the incident, Gregory Walters was arrested and faced a charge of second-degree murder. The investigation into the shooting continued as authorities sought to piece together the circumstances that led to the deadly confrontation. Wade Lockwood was remembered by his family, including a sister and several nieces and nephews. He was laid to rest with full military honors in Pleasant Valley Cemetery in his home state of New York.
