Witnessing Murder

[ccavagnolo]

After moving to New Orleans only a few months ago I have had the horror of personally witnessing two murders, seeing the aftermath of two others and being reminded of others on an almost weekly basis. Whether it be gang related, turf related, overly anxious cops or unknown affiliation I have never experienced such violence within what should be another peaceful, hard working and close knit community. I have countless neighbors under house arrest, one as young as 14 and a 16 year old neighbor in a wheel chair after a drive by incident. From what i've noticed a good portion of youth learns the ropes of gangs, guns, drugs and bitches before they hit the sixth grade.

But nothing could have caused me more anger, frustration and sadness than witnessing a young man being gunned down right in front of me. A baby in his arms, family and children in overly cheerful spirit a split second before the 21 year old was shot in the face. I dont get it, and i never will.

Report:

http://www.nola.com/crime/index.ssf/2012/05/new_orleans_man_shot_to_death.html

Map of 2012 murders:

http://www.nola.com/crime/murders/

[closeupready]

1. Witnessing such violence can be traumatic on its own,

without even being personally subjected to the violence.

Acts of violence to which I've been a witness have stayed with me, haunting my thoughts, for many years. I can't even bring myself to type some of the things I've seen.

I've never witnessed a murder though. Maybe see a counselor; you may find yourself experiencing some post-traumatic stress.

[ccavagnolo]

2. Im feeling pretty strong

I mostly think about his kids, the reason for the incident, the issues his family will most likely face with the loss of a father and a brother. how and why are these issues never ending?