Thomas Markland, a 65-year-old white man from Sebring, Florida, was killed on June 15, 2014 during a family gathering. According to reports, an initial exchange of gunfire occurred when Thomas shot his nephew, Phillip Justin Markland, apparently in self-defense. Phillip, 30, then obtained a rifle and shot Thomas nearly 25 times. Witnesses and physical evidence later contradicted Phillip’s claim of self-defense, describing erratic behavior by Phillip, including statements that he was Jesus Christ, and indicating some shots were fired in an execution-style manner while Thomas faced away from Phillip.

Investigators noted Phillip’s prior use of synthetic cannabis known as K-2, though it was not established whether he was under the influence at the time. Phillip was arrested and treated at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, where he continued to assert he could not die. He was charged with his uncle’s murder and the case focused on the number and pattern of gunshot wounds and witness testimony. Does anyone have additional information about the night of June 15, 2014 or knew Thomas or the family?