A 40-year-old Michigan woman died, allegedly at the hands of her ex-boyfriend, only a few days after a judge had approved a personal protection order against him.
The incident occurred on August 3rd outside the Linden Square Assisted Living Facility in Saline, where the victim, Amber Jo Thomas, 40, was employed.
According to authorities, Thomas and a male acquaintance were on their way to her car when Thomas’ ex-boyfriend, Barry Garza, 58, reportedly launched an attack.
Gunfire was exchanged, resulting in injuries to both Thomas and her acquaintance, a 67-year-old man. Thomas subsequently died from her injuries at a nearby hospital, while the man’s condition is reported to be stable.
Garza fled the scene in a Ford Focus but later crashed at the intersection of S. Ann Arbor and Willis Roads.
Police apprehended him using a taser after he failed to comply with their instructions, according to a press release from the Saline Police Department.
Facing charges of murder, assault with intent to murder, and felony firearm possession, Garza was arraigned during the weekend and is currently held without bond. The murder weapon was found.
Court records revealed that Thomas had filed a Personal Protection Order against Garza on July 27, which was granted the following day. The order outlined alleged instances of physical and verbal abuse that transpired during their nine-year relationship. Thomas had expressed concerns for her safety due to threats made by Garza.
Amber Jo Thomas, remembered for her passion for gardening, dogs, and camping, leaves behind a mourning family that includes her mother, son, and twin brother.