2 months ago
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We spoke over the phone with a family member from Marianna, Ark., where Clemmons lived when he was young. For now this relative wants to protect his identity; so we didn't include his name in this report.
Four police officers shot to death at Seattle-area coffee shop Sunday rattled not only the nation but the prime suspect's family too.
"It was something that no one in our family would think he'd ever do. It's as shocking to us as it is to everyone else," the family member said.
That relative says he last saw and talked to Clemmons during a trip to Seattle back in September. At the time, causing an event like this contradicted a spiritual change he saw in Clemmons character.
"Into God, he didn't want anyone cursing around him, says he was Jesus, all into the Lord," the family member said.But that family member says if anything is to blame for the killings of four Washington police officers, it's Clemmon's long history in and out of prison.
"I'm thinking that right there probably pushed him over the edge," the family member said.
The relative says Clemmons felt he was mistreated in prison, especially during feedings in confinement. The relative says the state also ignored family members' appeals to get Clemmons a mental evaluation.
"I really think the system failed him because we've been telling those people up in Washington that he needs help," the family member said.
Today's THV also asked his relative if he had any idea where Clemmons escaped too in the days following the shooting and he said no.
He also said he has no idea where Clemmons' wife may be. There was word earlier Monday evening from Washington police that she may be heading to Arkansas.
One final note, that relative says he's been in contact with the FBI about the shooting.
