Sunday, September 14, 2008

beaten to death

A man was beaten to death just across from our shelter a couple nights ago. We didn't know what happened at first, just that there were 12 emergency vehicles out front. Having the police connections we do, we first found out that there had been a beating, and then later, that it was a murder - the man died in hospital.

An event like that puts everyone on edge. Do we know who it was? Do we know the person who did it? Answers are coming slowly. Word on the street gives us both the name of the victim, who was not one of our regulars, and the accused, who was. The media (although who can believe them) says the fight was over a cigarette, and that there were many involved. Apparently, the man who died was a nice gentle guy. People are upset, and understandably .

As for the accused, well, it's all speculation, but I would be inclined to believe it. The client is one I've gotten to know quite well, who has some serious anger issues. His body is riddle with knife marks and stab wounds, each on tells a story. He's been trying to detox, but returns to drinking within a couple days each time. When he's drinking, he's mean, and violent. It saddens me, but I believe the rumors could be true; only time will tell.

This is life on the street. Many people have warned me that the clients will die, and it will hurt. No one warned me that the clients will kill and it will hurt. It's interesting, and hard to imagine. I mean, I've known people who have killed, that just happens being where I am, but that's always been in the past, this is just so very present. I'm not hurting in the deeply disturbed keep me up all day sense or anything, I'm just...saddened? Maybe that's not the right word either. I'm... contemplative today, contemplative.

7 comments:

Lee said...

You work such a tough job. It amazes me how you handle it.

Caroline said...

Oh my dear, I am sorry to hear it - sorry for the poor man that died and sorry too for the perpetrator, a life also ruined. You say he tried to detox so he wanted to be different, he failed and now it is too late to turn it around. I am sorry for you and your staff too, hazard of the job it may be, but situations where there are no winners are always sad. Take care of yourself.

Awake and Dreaming said...

thanks guys. It'll be interesting to watch and see how this turns out. And to see how others, and I, respond.

Anonymous said...

Yes, that sounds really tough. Take care and sleep well (I imagine you are asleep as i write this.. !)

Tanya said...

How awful for all involved. I'm so sorry.

grits said...

It does leave you thinking doesn't it? You always hope it's not going to be your client you see in the news, you know it could happen but when it does you are never quite prepared. Hang in there.......I know what it's like.

Anonymous said...

Wow, that is hard to take. I liked your post though. You have a lot of maturity for a "brand new social worker."