Phillip Dewayne Thomas Obituary and Death: 32-Year-Old Tragically Killed in Shooting Inside Red Dog Saloon Bar and Grill in Jackson, TN – Gofundme Campaign Launched to Support Funeral Expenses Jackson, TN — In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has left a community in mourning, 32-year-old Phillip Dewayne Thomas lost his life in a shooting incident at the Red Dog Saloon Bar and Grill

Phillip Dewayne Thomas Obituary and Death: 32-Year-Old Tragically Killed in Shooting Inside Red Dog Saloon Bar and Grill in Jackson, TN – Gofundme Campaign Launched to Support Funeral Expenses

Jackson, TN — In a heart-wrenching tragedy that has left a community in mourning, 32-year-old Phillip Dewayne Thomas lost his life in a shooting incident at the Red Dog Saloon Bar and Grill, located at 1450 South Highland Avenue, during the early hours of January 4, 2025. The Jackson Police Department confirmed the devastating event occurred around 2:30 a.m., sending shockwaves through the neighborhood and leaving family, friends, and loved ones grappling with an irreparable loss.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers discovered Mr. Thomas near the entrance of the popular establishment, suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. Despite the heroic and immediate life-saving efforts of first responders, Mr. Thomas succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The tragic loss of such a young and vibrant life has left a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Witnesses at the saloon reported a heated altercation escalating moments before the shooting. Their accounts were instrumental in providing a detailed description of the suspect and his vehicle, enabling law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in the pursuit of justice. A BOLO (Be On the Lookout) alert was issued, and law enforcement agencies in nearby areas were notified of the suspect’s description.

In a crucial development, deputies in Crockett County identified and stopped a vehicle matching the witness-provided details shortly after the incident. The driver, 55-year-old Dantae Connor, was apprehended without incident during the traffic stop and subsequently transported to the Jackson Madison County Criminal Justice Complex. Connor now faces charges of voluntary manslaughter, a charge that underscores the senseless nature of this violent act.

Connor remains in custody and is awaiting his formal arraignment scheduled for Tuesday morning at Jackson City Court. Authorities have expressed their commitment to ensuring that justice is served for the life lost in such a preventable and tragic manner.

The Jackson Police Department released a statement extending its heartfelt condolences to Mr. Thomas’s family and loved ones. “Our thoughts are with the victim’s family and everyone impacted by this tragic event. We remain committed to ensuring justice is served,” the statement read.

Phillip Dewayne Thomas is remembered as a kind-hearted individual with an infectious smile and a magnetic personality that left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. Friends and family have described him as a devoted son, a loyal friend, and a pillar of strength in his community. His untimely death has created a ripple effect of sorrow throughout Jackson and beyond.

In the wake of this devastating incident, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist Mr. Thomas’s family with funeral expenses and other associated costs during this challenging time. Organizers of the fundraiser emphasized the importance of community support in helping to honor the memory of a beloved individual whose life was tragically cut short.

As the investigation continues, the community of Jackson has come together to support the grieving family and demand accountability. Community leaders and local organizations have called for increased awareness of violence and a united front to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future.

This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the far-reaching consequences of violence. The family of Phillip Dewayne Thomas has requested privacy during this period of mourning as they navigate the complexities of grief and loss.

Further details about funeral arrangements and the GoFundMe campaign can be found through family representatives and community announcements. Mr. Thomas’s loved ones have expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support, which has provided some solace amidst the pain of their unimaginable loss.