Aplington-Parkersburg coach Ed Thomas murdered

By Jeff Raasch and Orlan Love The Gazette, Updated June 24. 2009 9:59PM Ed Thomas’ son, Aaron Thomas, spoke at a press conference in Parkersburg this afternoon on the shooting death of his father. “With the shocking events of the day, nothing could prepare you for what our family or community is going through,” Aaron said. “A man of deep faith who touched many lives … our family thanks everyone for all the thoughts, the prayers, the concern for our family. “We also want to make sure we express our concern and our care for the Becker family,” Aaron added, referring to Mark Becker, the man facing first-degree murder charges in Ed Thomas’ death. “People need to pray for (the Beckers) as well." Without a doubt, we’re going to miss him,” Aaron said. “I feel very fortunate to be the son of Ed Thomas.” Requesting privacy for the family, he concluded, “we do appreciate your sympathy and your understanding at this time.” Becker, 24, is accused of killing Aplington-Parkersburg football coach Ed Thomas at the school's weight room this morning. “ Becker is charged with first-degree murder. He made an initial appearance on a first-degree murder charge Wednesday afternoon in the Butler County Jail in Allison. The hearing was held before Associate District Court Judge Peter Newell, who set a $1 million cash bail. Authorities planned to move Becker to the Cerro Gordo County Jail in Mason City Wednesday tonight. Dave Winker of the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation said Becker was arrested “shortly after the 911 call came in." He declined comment on a possible motive for the shooting. “Motive is another one of those areas that, it’s just to early to speculate on,” Winker said. “Any discussion of motive would be speculation at this point.” Click here for the latest photos [CONTINUE READING]