Body of Judicial Primary Winner Is Found After Fishing Boat Accident
Less than three weeks ago, Tom Zachry won the Republican primary for a seat on the Texas bench, in a Tarrant County race in which there was no Democratic nominee.
But just as the Fort Worth lawyer seemed virtually certain of achieving a lifelong dream of being a judge, he died over the weekend on a fishing trip after his boat capsized. His submerged body was discovered yesterday about 200 feet from shore in Aquilla Lake in Hill County, reports the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Autopsy results are pending, but a sheriff’s officer says the cold may have gotten to Zachry, who was reportedly a strong swimmer.
Married for more than 45 years to his college sweetheart, Zachry was active in his church and encouraged others with his upbeat attitude.
Speaking at an Arlington Republican Women’s Club election forum five days before the primary was held, Zachry focused on his family and his faith. Tarrant County District Attorney Joe Shannon said Zachry told the crowd that despite the loss of a daughter a decade ago, he was happy with his life, his marriage and his relationship with Christ.
“He said he’d be fine whether he won or lost,” Shannon tells the Star-Telegram. “That was really uplifting to me.”
Earlier coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Winning Judicial Candidate, Missing After Boating Accident, Is Presumed Dead”
