Kurt Cochran’s family opens up
Part of Kurt Cochran’s family is back in the United States. He was the only American killed in the London terror attack — and his wife, Melissa, was badly injured.
It has been two weeks now since that deadly attack. And on Wednesday, a memorial service was held at the Westminster Abbey in London where Melissa met the royal family. But in Idaho Falls, KIFI/KIDK reporter Taja Davis was able to catch up with Kurt Cochran’s brother-in-law to see what’s next for the family.
Kurt’s brother-in-law, Clint Payne, is back in the states — and has been speaking for the family. They took the time to be together in London and were not doing formal interviews with anybody for the past two weeks. But now, Payne is opening up with us about what he and his family went through when they heard the life-changing news.
“It’s — the emotions you would expect. Disbelief. We were heartbroken and just shocked that something like this would happen,” Payne said.
The family took quick action, flying to London to be by Melissa’s side. Payne held a press conference that was watched by millions. He also set up a GoFundMe page that raised tens of thousands and surpassed its goal — in a matter of days.
“So I wanted to make sure that I could honor Kurt by taking care of Melissa. We’re just overwhelmed and full of gratitude for how kind everyone has been. It brings Melissa to tears,” Payne said.
Melissa’s condition is steadily progressing.
“In the attack, her leg was shattered — her left leg from the knee down. It’s obviously very painful for her but she’s doing well,” Payne said.
“When will Melissa be back in the states?” KIFI/KIDK’s Taja Davis asked.
“Because she’s doing so well, we’re hoping that it will be soon. It’s up to the doctors to clear her.”
In the midst of getting affairs in order and making sure Melissa is taken care of, the family is taking the time to remember and honor Kurt.
“He was always so happy and easygoing. We got together as a family quite often and Kurt was always there. The kids loved Uncle Kurt and to play with him. He was just a bright spot in our family,” Payne said.
Cochran’s funeral plans have been in discussion but nothing is set in stone. The family is leaning toward an upbeat celebration of life — a concert to honor Kurt’s love and passion.
“We’re going to miss Kurt terribly. He was a great man and we’re thankful for the time that we got to spend with him in our lives,” Payne said.
The next step for the family is to bring Melissa home. Payne and Melissa’s parents — serving as Mormon missionaries in London — have received an honorable release from church leaders and are told that their mission now is to take care of Melissa.
Kurt’s funeral will take place shortly after Melissa returns to her home in Salt Lake City.
