Chapter Twenty-nine - Best People on Earth

Donna Tompkins (left) and Iona Price (center) at the Elks Club where they worked together in Canton.

A spotlight on the Elks Club.

The esteemed and exclusive organization with a long-standing history, the Elks, known for fostering camaraderie and philanthropy among its members, held a significant position within the community. However, as detectives delve deeper into the case, questions arise about whether the tight-knit nature of the Elks fraternity could be protecting its own members, including Terry Haynes. Could the organization's secrecy and elite standing in the community create an environment where influential members are inclined to shield one another from potential accusations or investigations?

As the interviews progress, snippets of Donna's life unfold through conversations with her co-workers at the Elks Club. The details shared about her struggles with her father's expectations, financial difficulties, and conflicts with her ex-husband paint a picture of a woman grappling with various challenges. Amidst this backdrop, the Elks Club emerges as a common thread, a place where Donna found solace and spent time with her colleagues. However, does the close bond among Elks’ members extend beyond the club's walls—particularly for those facing personal troubles?

Terry Haynes, a member of the Elks and a key figure in Donna's life, adds further intrigue to the investigation. Formerly involved in a romantic relationship with Donna, Terry's interactions and potential connections to other individuals at the Elks Club come under scrutiny. The dynamics of their amorous past, accusations of theft, and Terry's willingness to cooperate with investigators raise many compelling questions.

Is Terry's affiliation with the Elks Club a factor in his actions and their implications for Donna's case?

Could the fraternity's code of loyalty and shared experiences influence its members' decisions and behaviors, potentially shaping the investigation?