Country music star Randy Travis is grieving the loss of his stagehand Thom Roberts, who was reportedly shot dead by his jealous wife, according to police.
The shocking incident occurred on Monday (July 10), after Nashville police stated that Roberts, 68, was allegedly gunned down by his jealous wife Christine, 72, at their home.
According to Fox News, emergency services responded to a call at the home on Howard Avenue at around 8pm.
An arrest affidavit obtained by the news outlet describes how Christine apparently told police she shot her husband because she believed he had been unfaithful. A neighbor had heard the shot and headed to the property to see what had happened.
NBC detailed that the neighbor called 911 after finding Roberts lying on the porch. The affidavit also says that the neighbor “reported to detectives that the defendant had also told them that she admitted to shooting her husband because she discovered that he had cheated on her.”
Roberts was pronounced dead at the scene, the arrest affidavit says.
Roberts died of a single gunshot wound to the chest, and his wife was charged with criminal homicide and had her bond set at $100,000, per court records.
Taking to his Facebook page following the incident, Travis wrote about the loss of his longtime friend, saying: “The stage has gone dim with the passing of Thom Roberts. For many years, the Randy Travis band and crew had the opportunity to share the winding roads and the beautiful venues with one of the very best stage lighting technicians in the business.”
The 64-year-old singer continued: “Thom not only had a magical sense about lighting a stage; but, he had a quiet, charismatic presence that ignited your soul. Always willing, with a ‘can do’ and ‘happy to do it’ attitude. He was a gentle giant of a man that wore a constant smile on his face and carried a song in his heart. One would search a lifetime to find a kinder, gentler spirit. Thom was my friend and I loved him dearly.”
Travis’ post concluded with: “Tonight, I will look toward heaven and am sure I will see flashes of Thom’s handiwork in the night sky — letting us know he is home, and all is well.”
Travis is set to resume his ‘More Life’ tour next week, but without his trusted stagehand.
Roberts’ wife is allegedly due to appear in court on Wednesday (July 12).
