Aretha Franklin’s father, Rev. C.L. Franklin, was shot during a botched robbery inside of his Detroit home today (June 10, 1979).
The incident occurred when six men involved in the robbery targeted Reverend Franklin’s home, although they did not know it was the famous preacher’s residence.
The men were eyeing Rev. Franklin’s antique windows in the robbery, and they startled him, as they attempted to break into his home.
Franklin, who was armed, shot at the intruders, who returned fire and hit the 63-year-old man in the groin and right knee.
Franklin was rushed to Detroit’s Ford Hospital, where he was listed in critical condition.
It was there, that the Rev. C.L. Franklin slipped into a coma, which he would never awake from.
Three men were eventually arrested for their roles in the robbery and shooting.
Jerome and Howard Woodward, were both eventually sentenced to 15 years in prison for their role in the burglary and shooting.
Another man, Watson Thompson, was acquitted of the robbery and shooting, despite the protests of 14 Detroit ministers, who requested Wayne County prosecutors push for a new trial for Thompson.
Tragically on July 27, 1984 Reverend C.L. Franklin, who was still comatose after nearly five years, died from his wounds from the robbery.
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