Kimberly Schlapman of Little Big Town’s Brother-in-Law Dies in Alleged Drunk Driving Accident
Little Big Town's Kimberly Schlapman has confirmed that her brother-in-law, Thomas Allen Schlapman, was killed in a motorcycle accident the night before Thanksgiving. The singer took to Facebook to thank fans for the support, and to explain more about a story first reported by numerous Nashville and Lynchburg, Va. area news outlets.
WTVF-TV reports that Thomas Allen Schlampan was riding his bike in Franklin, Tenn. when a silver Infiniti driven by Gregory Powers crossed the center line and struck him head-on. Powers was charged with vehicular homicide and failure to maintain a lane. At the time, police were still waiting for the results of blood alcohol tests to confirm their suspicion that Powers was driving under the influence.
The Little Big Town singer's post on Facebook shares a few more details:
Last Wednesday, Nov 21, my brother-in-law was killed by a drunk driver. He had come to Nashville from Virginia to visit us for Thanksgiving, which is our long-standing family tradition. He is married & has a 9 year old little girl. This is a part of life that one never imagines or plans for. It has been very difficult to accept. Allen Schlapman was an amazing father, husband, brother & son. We will miss him so much. I have been deeply touched by all your well-wishes & prayers. Thank you. God has proven himself faithful to us & has given us great peace amidst this horrible tragedy. Kimberly
The Tennessean reports that Powers was out on bond on DUI and vehicular assault charges stemming from a July incident, in which he allegedly hit an employee of the Pond Bar with his car and then drove away. After the Nov. 21 crash, he remains in jail on $250,000 bond.
The News and Advance of Thomas Allen Schlapman's hometown of Lynchburg, Va. reports that the 45-year-old leaves behind a wife, mother and daughter. His funeral was held last Tuesday (Nov. 27) in Lynchburg. Little Big Town announced on Nov. 26 that they'd be rescheduling shows that week due to a loss in the immediate family.