Fredericksburg, Virginia – The family of a 35-year-old man tragically shot while securing a home is grappling with their loss and seeking answers. Michael Dodge II’s mother, Lea, expressed her heartbreak, saying, “He was a good human. You killed my son for nothing.”
Michael Dodge, who worked as a contractor for mortgage companies, was tasked with securing a property when he encountered an unexpected and dangerous situation. His father, Michael William Dodge, explained that his son often worked on foreclosures and abandoned properties, ensuring they were safe and secure. “If there were minor repairs needed, he would take care of that as well,” he said.
On Tuesday, Michael was dispatched to a home on Mountain View Road to change locks and secure the premises. However, he called his employer to report that a man was inside and acting aggressively, armed with a gun. According to his father, Michael attempted to retreat from the tense situation before gunfire erupted.
Emergency responders arrived, but it was too late. They found Michael lying unresponsive in the driveway. Authorities apprehended the alleged shooter, 64-year-old Donald Thomas, who now faces charges of first-degree murder in connection with the incident. “This person has destroyed a lot of lives,” Michael William Dodge said, lamenting the loss of his son.
In the face of such tragedy, the family has received an outpouring of support from the community. They are also searching for Michael’s dog, Wiz, who was with him during the shooting and remains missing. “The love and prayers have meant everything,” Lea Dodge noted, as they navigate this painful chapter of their lives.
As they prepare to honor Michael’s memory, his family reflects on the type of person he was. “He was loving and protective of his family,” Michael’s father shared. Lea added, “He never met a stranger. Everyone was a friend to him.”
With a heavy heart, the family conveyed their message to the shooter: “You took my son for nothing. Nobody got what they wanted, and my son is gone.” The family continues to heal and remember Michael as the caring individual he was, emphasizing that his legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.