John Franklin Thomas Jr., 44, of Atlanta, Texas, was one of two people found shot to death inside a camper on March 11, 2022. Jennifer Archer was the other victim; the camper was burned to the ground after the shootings. Forensic testing later confirmed a recovered firearm as the murder weapon.

Charles Spraberry was arrested and charged with capital murder and other offenses. He escaped custody briefly before being recaptured in Louisiana. He pleaded guilty to capital murder and multiple related charges and received life without parole for the capital murder plus additional consecutive terms for the other offenses.

Family members of both victims expressed forgiveness during the proceedings; one of Thomas’ sisters spoke of honoring his memory with grace and mercy, and one of Archer’s children also extended forgiveness. Anyone who knew John Franklin Thomas Jr. or has information about him is asked to share what they remember.