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Tinker to hold memorial service today

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  • By Ralph Monson
  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE --  A public memorial service for the two children killed in a tragic shooting here Monday is scheduled for 1 p.m. in the base theater.
   The children, Jourdain and Dylan, died along with their father Technical Sgt. Dustin Thorson, in an apparent homicide and suicide. 
   "Words cannot express how deeply saddened we are by these tragic deaths," said Brig. Gen. Lori Robinson, 552nd Air Control Wing commander. "Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to their family and loved ones as we grieve this loss together."
   The Air Force officially released the names of the deceased during a press conference in the Tinker Club on Wednesday. During that announcement, General Robinson said that while the 552nd ACW Air Control Wing has suffered a tremendous loss, Team Tinker has pulled together to support the family and each other.
   "The road ahead is difficult, but we will take it together," said the general. 
   Col. Mark Correll, 72nd Air Base Wing and Installation commander, also discussed support issues. "We are committed to ensuring all those suffering in the wake of such unexplainable loss are provided with all of the caring, assistance and support they need," said Colonel Correll.
   Both commanders urged anyone who may struggling to cope with these tragic events to seek assistance, either directly through the Integrated Delivery System network of providers or by contacting their immediate supervisors for referral information.
   The deaths are the subject of an ongoing joint investigation by Detachment 114, Air Force Office of Special Investigations and the Oklahoma County Sheriff's Department.
   According to law enforcement officials, the incident started out as a domestic disturbance but escalated into the fatal shooting. 
   "It appears the sergeant shot the two children and then turned the gun on himself," said Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel.
   The Sheriff praised the response and cooperation and professionalism of the base response agencies. That was echoed by Colonel Correll. "The immediate and professional response ensured that no additional people were in harms way," he said. 
   Colonel Correll stressed that the effort wasn't limited to emergency response teams. "The support from our support organizations has been equally impressive. Team Tinker is truly reflecting our Wingman values."
   Sergeant Thorson was assigned to the 752nd Communications Squadron and served as the non-commissioned officer in charge of airborne warning and control systems computer operations. He had been in the Air Force for 14 years.