(CMR) Two police departments in the state of California are conducting investigations following two separate incidents, in which two black men were found hanging from a tree.
While in one instance foul play is not suspected by the police, in the other instance police are conducting a full investigation.
Malcolm Harsch
Reports from the San Bernadino County Sheriff's department is that 38-year-old Malcolm Harch was found hanging from a tree in Victorville on May 31.
According to the police, foul play was not suspected, the police say the 38-year-old was found near the homeless encampment where he was said to have lived.
It is believed that Harsch committed suicide.
However, the family of Harsch rejects the claim noting that in the wake of George Floyd's death, suicide may be used as an excuse to not bring the police force under more scrutiny.
Robert Fuller
Similarly, Robert Fuller's lifeless body was found on Wednesday (June 10), hanging from a tree outside the Palmdale City Hall.
Reports from the police are that Fuller's body showed ” no signs of a struggle”.
The Los Angeles Country Sheriff's Department said based on the preliminary findings, it is believed that the 24-year-old likely died by suicide.
However, family members of Fuller's believe that Robert was lynched.
The incidents which are 10 days apart, has raised suspicions among the public.
On Saturday, hundreds gathered in the park where Fuller's body was found demanding an investigation into his death.
A similar protest arose in Victorville where Harsch was found.
- Fascinated
- Happy
- Sad
- Angry
- Bored
- Afraid