BEREA, Ky. — A tragic shooting in Madison County on Monday night concluded with the arrest of 75-year-old Steve Gerlaugh, who has been charged with the murder of 42-year-old Thomas Rison. The incident, which took place on Rison’s birthday, was recorded by surveillance cameras, capturing a fatal moment on Baldwin Street.
Authorities report that footage shows Gerlaugh in the driver’s seat of a white Toyota Camry while Rison stood by the window. A sudden muzzle flash was seen before Rison collapsed. Gerlaugh has been detained at the Madison County Detention Center following the charges.
On the scene shortly after 8 p.m., police discovered Rison with a gunshot wound to the chest. He was rushed to Saint Joseph Berea Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Madison County Coroner’s office confirmed that the shooting was the cause of death.
Rison, a local painter, had been overcoming a nearly two-decade-long battle with drug addiction and had been sober for 18 months. His mother, Patty Rison, remembered him as a rejuvenated man who dedicated himself to his sobriety and well-being. “He had not been on drugs for 18 months, and he was the best person that you could ask for. He made sure I was taken care of,” she said.
According to Patty, her son was tenacious in his support for others struggling with addiction, often pushing them to adhere to their recovery plans. Rison also found solace in his work, which kept him busy and aided in maintaining his sobriety. “That’s my way of keeping sober, is to work,” he often said, as recounted by his mother.
Chloe Rison, Tommy’s daughter, spoke of her father as an inspiration in recovery. She highlighted how their relationship deepened, particularly in her final year at Madison Southern, crediting his support and consistent presence during crucial times.
The local community and Rison’s family are still seeking answers to the reasons behind the deadly encounter, as the loss of Rison has left a profound impact on his loved ones and those who knew him.
The police investigation is ongoing, and additional details around the circumstances of the shooting are expected as the case develops. Meanwhile, Rison’s family and friends are left to remember a man who fought hard to turn his life around and deeply cared for those around him.