'It's unthinkable:' Family of Jerry Silas speaks out after he was killed in Stillwater apartment
STILLWATER, Okla. (KFOR) — The family of 43-year-old Jerry Silas is grieving after he was tragically killed in his apartment last Saturday.
The Stillwater Police Department arrested 47-year-old Damon Eugene Thomas Sr., for shooting Silas after the two got into an argument at Silas' apartment.
His brothers, Ben Vernon and Rich Silas recount the moment they got the shocking call.
"I got up and I called my baby brother, called Rich, and then I called the hospital and the hospital told me that was my brother," said Verner.
"I got the call and I just, all I could do is drop. I just couldn't believe it," said Rich.
The brothers said they grew up in Stillwater and had a very special bond that will be missed.
Verner said, "You really didn't see one of us without the other one, you know what I'm saying? Like, we were really tight."
Rich said it's been very hard and emotional for him. "I've felt most things I've never felt before," he added.
Silas was a father and respected man in his community taken too soon, the brother's said.
"He was a neighborhood celebrity, I mean like he was a star. Everybody knew him and he had a big heart," Verner said.
Verner, Rich and Silas grew up with Thomas, in disbelief, knowing police arrested him for pulling the trigger.
Verner said, "It's just unthinkable, man."
He added, "It's kind of crazy to know that somebody you grew up with, you had a sleepover with, ate at their house, could do something like that."
Thomas was arrested in Oklahoma City Monday, facing First Degree Manslaughter charges. Authorities said he also has another felony conviction on his record.
The brothers said they hope justice will be served and are now focused on moving forward.
"He got to travel a lot, he got to live a good life. Sad it had to end when it did, but he'll tell you, I lived my life. I lived the good life," said Silas.
Stillwater Police say the investigation is ongoing, with detectives following up on more leads with the potential for additional charges.
The family has started a GoFundMe to help with expenses during this difficult time. Click here to donate.