Nitro, WV (WOAY) A man taken into custody while naked inside the Mardi Gras Casino and Resort now faces first-degree murder in the death of his father.
Authorities confirm that 33-year-old Thomas Jeffrey Lawson Junior, of Iaeger, was arraigned late Sunday in Kanawha County Magistrate Court.
According to a criminal complaint, Lawson Junior shot and killed his father, Thomas Lawson Senior, on Saturday, February 21.
A detective with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office says deputies responded to Trail Hollow Road in Iaeger shortly before 2:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 22.
Investigators say Lawson Senior had left his home around 2:00 p.m. on Saturday to help his son cut trees blocking the roadway, but never returned.
After growing concerned, the victim’s wife contacted a family member, who called 911 around 10:30 Saturday night.
Deputies later discovered Lawson Sr.’s body near his son’s home.
Investigators say he had been shot at least six times in the back and in the back of the head.
A chainsaw was found near his feet.
Deputies say Lawson Sr had a revolver in his pocket, but it had not been fired and still contained all six rounds.
Lawson Jr was not at the residence when deputies arrived, and his truck was also missing.
The complaint states the victim’s wife reported to authorities her husband was afraid of his son and was “just trying to be a good dad.”
She further told investigators the two had previous physical altercations.
Investigators later learned that Lawson Jr could be traveling to the Mardi Gras Casino in Nitro, where he reportedly visits frequently.
Around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, February 22, Nitro police officers working security at the casino say Lawson Jr entered a restroom, removed his clothing, and exited wearing only a hat and shoes.
Officers say he made an obscene gesture, shouted an obscenity, and attempted to run before being tackled after a brief foot pursuit inside the casino.
Police say he had been at the casino since about 5:30 Saturday evening.
Investigators also reviewed text messages between father and son discussing plans to meet and cut trees.
The complaint states that Lawson Jr arranged the time and date his father would be at the residence.
Lawson Jr is now being held without bond at the South Central Regional Jail.
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