A Death in Newark

Today's New York Times has a lengthy story on the death of Defarra Gaymon, the Atlanta credit union executive who was fatally shot by a sheriff's deputy while apparently cruising for sex in a Newark park. Gaymon, who was married and had four children, was in Newark for his high school reunion.  On the day of his death, he told a former pastor that he was going to a church event and he told others that he was going to an Irish pub for a reunion event.  Instead, he went to Branch Brook Park, which was well known for cruising.  The local sheriff's had office singled the park out for undercover operations.  According to Officer Edward Esposito, Gaymon approached him and was told he was under arrest.  Gaymon allegedly resisted and charged Esposito, trying to take his gun.  Esposito fatally shot Gaymon. 

Shot and killed over cruising. 

This story is a tragedy on many levels, but I see it primarily as a tragedy of the closet.  Commenting on his reputation as a sharp dresser, the article has this to say:  

"In hindsight, and held up against stereotypes, recollections of Mr. Gaymon’s appearance have invariably led to speculation about whether he had a double life, or a hidden one. But friends and relatives who spoke about him were quick to reel off facts that they believed suggested otherwise: His marriage. His four children. At bars, he would comment on attractive women."

Of course he would.

Gaymon was the son of a Baptist preacher and Air Force veteran who prayed that his first born would be a son. In other words, there were massive expectations heaped on him from birth. I wonder if there was any room in those expectations for a gay son?

"George Gaymon brought the congregation to its feet during a fiery eulogy that lasted but 30 seconds. 'We will bring the circumstance to light!' he shouted from the pulpit of Antisdel Chapel at Benedict College, his son’s alma mater. “We shall never rest until justice is done!'”

Let's hope so.