Gage David Bodenheimer, a 21-year-old Caucasian male, was known for his free-spirited and fun-loving nature. He had a gift for lighting up any room he entered, and his kind-hearted demeanor could brighten even the darkest of days. Originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana, he was cherished by many for his warmth and positivity.
On New Year's Eve, December 31, 2015, Gage's life was tragically cut short in Chandler, Arizona.
He was fatally shot at an apartment complex located near Loop 101 and Chandler Boulevard. The initial report to the police came from 19-year-old Nathaniel Thomas, who claimed he had shot an intruder who was breaking into his home. Thomas even called 911 to report the supposed intrusion.
However, as Chandler police began their investigation, the story of a home invasion quickly unraveled. Witnesses who were present at the apartment at the time of the shooting provided a starkly different account of the events that transpired. According to their statements, Gage was not an intruder but a friend who was asleep on the floor of Thomas's apartment. In what was described as a prank, Thomas pointed a handgun at the sleeping Gage in an attempt to wake him up. Believing the firearm was unloaded, Thomas pulled the trigger. The gun discharged, and the single shot resulted in Gage's death.
Faced with the witness testimonies, the initial claim of self-defense was determined to be a fabrication. Nathaniel Thomas was subsequently arrested for the shooting. He was charged with second-degree murder, with authorities noting his actions showed an indifference to human life. It was also reported that Thomas had a history of gun use and was wearing a holster at the time of the incident. The tragic event left a profound void in the lives of Gage's family and friends, who remembered him as a loving individual always ready with a hug.
