Metairie family still waiting for closure four years after loved one’s death
By Sula Kim
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METAIRIE, La. (WDSU) — A local family is still waiting for closure several years after their loved one’s death.
Metairie native Thomas Hand was gunned down in 2022 while preaching the gospel on the streets of Montgomery Alabama.
The 38-year-old was shot to death right in front of his pregnant wife and two-year-old son.
A 17-year-old was arrested and charged in the case, but he posted bond and there has been no movement in court. They’re still waiting for a trial four years later.
Sister Kelly Massa says her calls are not getting through and there’s been no clear communication or transparency. She feels frustrated because her repeated attempts for an update are going unanswered.
“I don’t understand how a murderer can make bond for a capital murder charge and now he’s living his life for four years. It’s another setback and I feel like I’ve been living in disbelief,” Massa said.
To soothe her pain, Massa visits her brother’s grave in Metairie, where the grief continues until they get some closure.
“It just feels like we’re sitting here with this open wound, and we can’t close it until we get some type of peace and justice for Tommy. It’s frustrating and I’m hoping for help by speaking out,” Massa said.
Charlie Hawthorne from the Montgomery Alabama district attorney’s office told WDSU, part of the delay was because the suspect’s attorney got suspended from practicing law. He said the trial is scheduled for July, but Kelly Massa says the family has not been told anything. Massa says no one has reached out to inform her about the updates.
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