Sentence given in 2022 murder at Westwego home

According to court documents filed with the Jefferson Parish District Attorney, on Feb. 13, 2022, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to the call of a shooting in the 600 block of Emile Avenue.

An investigation revealed Curtis Thomas III, his father, the homeowner and two victims, including 50-year-old Charles McGehee, were originally at the home to watch the Super Bowl.

Deputies report that the television and a lightbulb were illuminating the room they were in via an extension cord when the power was cut, darkening the room.

It was then that, without provocation, Thomas opened fire with a .380-caliber semiautomatic pistol. 

Court documents report the bullets struck McGehee’s right shoulder and torso ultimately killing him. A second victim was reportedly shot in the arm but was able to run away. After, Thomas went outside with the gun, where he was met by a JPSO deputy.

Documents note that the witnesses, Thomas’ father and the homeowner, both died in 2023.

The jury deliberated for about four hours before finding Thomas guilty of second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder.

During the trial, family members read impact statements describing to Thomas how much kind, loving and gentle man McGehee was.

“There was absolutely no reason for you to shoot that gun,” McGehee’s sister told Thomas. “You destroyed a whole family. Charles didn’t deserve it.” 

A criminal background check on Thomas revealed he was barred from possessing a gun in 2011, due to an attempted second-degree murder conviction for which he served a 10-year sentence.

On Thursday, Aug. 21, Thomas was sentenced to life in prison without the benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence for second-degree murder. Additionally, he received 50 years for attempted second-degree murder and 20 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Latest Posts