Retired Lafayette attorney killed in Costa Rica as he intervenes in a domestic fight

SANTA EULALIA, ALAJUELA PROVINCE, COSTA RICA — Retired Lafayette-area attorney Tom Brooks Jr. died Tuesday in Costa Rica, where he has lived since retiring four years ago.

Brooks’ brother, Matt Brooks, posted a notice Wednesday on Facebook that his brother died Tuesday.

AM Costa Rica, an online English news website, reported Wednesday that Brooks was killed Tuesday morning.

“Early news reports suggest that Tom’s tragic death occurred while he intervened in a domestic dispute,” a statement from the Brooks’ family reads. “While the circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, we are in communication with local investigators and the Costa Rican prosecutor’s office as we seek to understand what happened.

“We are grateful to the Costa Rican law enforcement authorities for their swift action in apprehending the suspect. We respect the Costa Rican legal system and are hopeful that justice will be served.”

“Tom lived an extraordinary life marked by service, leadership, and an unwavering dedication to his family and community,” Brooks’ brother, Matt, posted on Facebook. “Tom tragically lost his life yesterday while in his home in Costa Rica. Tom had moved to Costa Rica four years ago to enjoy his retirement.”

“The outpouring of love and support from the Greater Lafayette community has been a source of comfort to our family during this incredibly difficult time,” the family said. “Tom’s life and contributions have touched so many, and we are deeply moved by the kind words, prayers, and tributes we have received.”

The family thanked the community members for keeping Tom and his family in their thoughts and prayers, and they asked for privacy to grieve.

Tom would have turned 70 in November.

After he retired, he moved to Santa Eulalia, Costa Rica, which is northwest of the Central American country’s capital. Costa Rica is bordered on the north by Nicaragua and to the south by Panama.

“Thomas Leo Brooks Jr., a cherished family member and accomplished professional, passed away tragically in … Atenas, Costa Rica, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and compassion,” his obituary states. “Thomas, a dedicated attorney, banker, and educator, was known for his unwavering commitment to his family, career, and community.

“Thomas graduated from Xavier University in 1978 with a degree in Business Administration, where he served as a student representative to the university,” his obituary states. “He began his career in banking at Fifth Third Bank and later Lafayette National Bank, where he served as vice president. In 1989, driven by his passion for law, he earned a J.D. from Valparaiso University, launching a successful career in legal practice.

“Thomas joined Mayfield and Brooks in Lafayette, Indiana, with his father, Thomas,” according to his obituary. “Tom Jr. specialized in estate planning, family trusts, and probate law.

“He also served as legal counsel for the city of West Lafayette, Indiana Redevelopment Commission and the Lafayette, Indiana, Police Department, where he contributed his expertise to various civic and redevelopment commissions. In addition, he was a longtime faculty lecturer in business law at Purdue University, inspiring countless students with his knowledge and mentorship.

“Thomas’s dedication extended far beyond his professional achievements,” his obituary said. “He was deeply involved in the Lafayette and West Lafayette communities, serving with organizations such as the Tippecanoe County CASA program, Boys State, and the St. Thomas Aquinas Center at Purdue. He also played key roles on several local boards, including the Downtown Business Center and Group Home for Children.

“Later in life, Thomas embraced the tranquility of retirement in Atenas, Costa Rica, where he continued to share his warmth and wisdom,” according to his obituary. “His sudden passing leaves an indelible void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him.”

“Thomas is survived by his loving parents, Thomas Brooks Sr. and Jane B. Brooks; his siblings: Jennifer Schetzsle (Bob), Brandon Brooks (Brenda), Connie Quizon (Oscar), Robert Brooks (Lucy), Matthew Brooks (Michelle), and Bradley Brooks (Angela); nine nieces and nephews; and 14 great-nieces and great-nephews. Thomas was preceded in death by his loving husband, Clay Bledsoe. He will be remembered for his kindness, intellect and selfless dedication to others.”

Matt Brooks’ Facebook post summed it up: “Tom touched countless lives through his kindness, wisdom, and generosity. He was more than a professional and community leader — he was a family member, friend, mentor and role model. While we mourn this tragic loss, we also celebrate the incredible legacy he leaves behind.”

Reach Ron Wilkins at [email protected]. Follow on Twitter: @RonWilkins2.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Retired Lafayette attorney killed in his home in Costa Rica