SALINE (WWJ) – Barry Garza, the man accused of killing his ex-girlfriend in Washtenaw County on Thursday, has been arraigned on felony charges, including open murder.
Garza, 58, is accused of shooting his ex-girlfriend, Amber Jo Thomas of Adrian, in the vacant parking lot of the former UAW hall on Woodland Drive in Saline late Thursday morning.
He's also accused of shooting a 67-year-old man who was described as a "casual acquaintance" of Thomas. He was said to be in stable condition.
Garza has been charged with open murder, attempted murder and felony firearm. He is being held without bond. The Detroit News reported Thomas, 40, had obtained a personal protection order against Garza last month, but it was never served.
Thomas worked at an assisted living home across from the parking lot, according to her obituary. She was "dearly loved by all the residents" at the home.
"Our condolences go out to the family and friends of all victims involved in this unnecessary tragedy," Saline police officials said in a press release. "Amber Jo Thomas, you will be remembered and we will do everything in our power to get justice for you and your family."
Officials said Thomas was walking out to her car at around 11:30 a.m. Thursday with her acquaintance, just prior to the shooting. She was parked in the adjacent lot as the assisted living center was hosting a car show in its parking lot that day.
According to Saline Police Chief Marlene Radzik, Thomas was approached by Garza while in the parking lot. The chief said Garza opened fire, shooting both victims before jumping into a tan-Ford Focus and fleeing the scene.
Garza crashed into another car while fleeing. He was uninjured in the crashed and police used a Taser before arresting him.
City and school facilities, including a middle school close by, went on a temporary lockdown in response to what was reported as an active shooter situation.
Linden Square Assisted Living Center officials released the following statement on Friday:
"We are deeply saddened by the event that occurred yesterday, resulting in injuries, and ultimately the loss of a valued staff member at Linden Square. Over the course of her time at Linden Square, Amber Thomas was a dedicated employee. She always put the residents first, and many of her co-workers looked to her as a mentor. Our hearts go out to her family, our residents, staff, and community. Linden Square and Heritage Property Management are grateful for the outpouring of support from the community as we navigate this difficult time. Heritage has management staff and grief counselors available on site to help those impacted by this event. As we move forward from this, Linden Square will be hosting a vigil in memory of our beloved staff member Amber Thomas on August 7th at 2 p.m."
