In the late spring of 2014, the life of Shawn Michael Thomas, a 26-year-old male, came to a sudden and tragic end in Junction City, Kansas. On May 26, 2014, Thomas, a soldier stationed at nearby Fort Riley, passed away. His death was officially reported by police as the result of a self-inflicted wound. At the time of his passing, he had recently returned from his first tour of duty with the U.S.
Army.
Originally from New Brighton, Pennsylvania, Thomas was a graduate of New Brighton High School and the Beaver County Vo-Tech, class of 2007. His obituary described his passing as unexpected, leaving behind a young son and a large extended family. The circumstances surrounding his death did not lead to any arrests or the identification of any suspects, as law enforcement determined there was no foul play involved. His family held services in his hometown of New Brighton, where he was buried with full military honors.