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RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — A young Black man found hanging from a tree in a downtown Raleigh parking lot on Saturday afternoon is being mourned by family and watched closely by community advocates as police continue investigating the death as a
suicide.
Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce said Monday afternoon that video from nearby businesses shows what happened on Saturday.
A small memorial now marks the spot where the man was found.
Boyce said the victim’s mother asked police to share that her 32yearold son had struggled with mental health issues in the past. He added that she has been distressed by speculation circulating online.
“She is not happy about what has been shared online,” Boyce said.
Mayor Janet Cowell said she is grieving with the family, and Boyce said he has had difficult conversations with the victim’s mother.
Questions about the circumstances of the death have spread across social media, prompting 11 to report on the incident due to its public location and the nature of what occurred.
Boyce said the victim’s mother appreciates the information police have provided.
“She is thankful that the Raleigh police department provided facts. She is appreciative we have answered her questions. She is disturbed what she saw on social media. It just continues to victimize her, her family,” he said.
Community activists who created the memorial met Monday morning with reporters. They have been calling for an investigation and hope to organize a vigil.
“We’re trying to organize that. We, again, we’re just trying to be patient,” said Diana Powell, Executive Director of Justice Served NC.
Advocates say the incident underscores the need for more resources for people in crisis.
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available 24/7 through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8.
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