In the quiet community of Alba, Michigan, a summer day turned to tragedy, forever marking the date of July 23, 2015. On that day, 11-year-old Thomas Belanger, a young boy known affectionately as 'Tom Tom,' lost his life in a devastating accident. A student of Alba and Mancelona Public Schools, Thomas was preparing to enter the 6th grade and was known for his enjoyment of fishing, climbing trees, and a love for Michigan State University Football and all Detroit sports. He was a White male who was born on January 14, 2004, in Grand Rapids.
The incident unfolded in his grandparents' yard where Thomas was playing with his 14-year-old brother. The boys had discovered their grandfather's unloaded. 357 revolver in a dresser drawer and located ammunition for it in a shed on the property. While inside a makeshift fort, Thomas tripped over some boards, causing the gun he was holding to discharge. The single shot struck him in the face, resulting in a fatal injury. At the time of the incident, the boys' grandparents and a step-sibling were at the home, though they did not witness the tragic moment.
The Antrim County Sheriff's Department conducted an investigation into the death of the young boy. Their findings concluded that the shooting was accidental. Consequently, no arrests were made, and there were no suspects in connection with the death of Thomas Belanger. In the aftermath, law enforcement officials emphasized the critical importance of safely securing firearms to prevent such heartbreaking events in the future, recommending the use of gun safes and locks. The community mourned the loss of a young life cut short, with funeral services held on July 28, 2015, followed by his interment in Fairview Cemetery in Mancelona.
