State leaders react to high school football coach's murder

A gunman shot and killed the prominent Iowa high school football coach in the school's weight room early Wednesday, The shooter was taken into custody shortly afterward, according to the Associated Press.

U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley lives near New Hartford, approximately 9 miles east of Parkersburg.

"This is a tragic day. In our area of the state, it's hard not to know Coach Thomas. He was a pillar of the community. His success on the football field made him an icon in his profession, but the people who knew him will remember him most for his leadership off the field. His leadership to help pull up a community knocked off its feet by an F-5 tornado only a year ago will forever be etched in the minds of Parkersburg residents and Iowans across our state. For more than three decades Coach Thomas led young men in more than just the game of football. He led them in the lessons of life. Barbara and I express our deepest sympathies to his family."

Gov. Chet Culver is a former high school football coach and also issued a statement.

"I couldn't be more shocked or saddened by the death of Coach Thomas. My thoughts and prayers are with Coach Thomas' family, the entire Parkersburg community, and all those who played for and loved this outstanding Iowan.

"As a former high school football coach, I've always had great admiration and respect for Coach Thomas. The state and national coaching fraternity has suffered a devastating loss. As we mourn the passing of Coach Thomas, it is my hope we can all continue to learn from his example."

The Associated Press also tracked down Toby Lorenzen, head coach at Central Lyon High School in Rock Rapids in northwest Iowa. He said the killing was a shock to people in high school football programs throughout Iowa.

"He was one of the most down to earth, well respected coaches around."