As an educator I am deeply saddened that this young man did not get the oh so strong message that there are consequences to his actions. And we, as a society, in my opinion, have failed, just as he has in the direction he has taken in his short life. 

This young man is a kind and gentle giant and obviously, very misdirected. I truly hope he 'wakes up', and soon, before he will, or may have already, gone down a road of which he can not return. My heart goes out to all those involved in this atrocity on so many levels. 

And for any of you who judge this man by the color of his skin, look in the mirror and ask yourself if your color makes your actions any better, worse or perfect.

"Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance
and conscientious stupidity." MLK