Former Director of Adult Institutions for the Missouri Department of Corrections, Tom Clements, was shot to death last night in his home. At the time of his death, Clements was serving as the head of the Colorado Department of Corrections, a position he took in 2011. Clements had served with the Missouri Department of Corrections for three decades.
CBS in Denver reports Clements, 58, was shot when he answered the front door of his home in Monument, Colo. around 8:50 p.m., and police continue to search for the gunman. Monument is north of Colorado Springs.
According to CBS, Lt. Jeff Kramer of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office says a family member called 911 to report the shooting and officers responded to find Clements dead. Authorities then brought in search dogs to search the wooded area surrounding the home and went door to door for information.
Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper says he is in disbelief over the killing.
“As your executive director, he helped change and improve (the department) in two years more than most people could do in eight years,” he said. “He was unfailingly kind and thoughtful, and sought the ‘good’ in any situation. I am so sad. I have never worked with a better person than Tom, and I can’t imagine our team without him.”
Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon says, “This is a heartbreaking tragedy for Tom Clements’ family and everyone who was fortunate enough to have known him, including his many friends at the Missouri Department of Corrections. Tom dedicated his professional life and his considerable skills to public service and protection, and the citizens of Missouri join the people of Colorado in mourning this tremendous loss.”
Clements is survived by his wife, Lisa, and their two daughters.
CBS has posted a photo gallery of Clements and authorities on the scene HERE.
