Downtown Raleigh Hanging Death Investigated as Suicide, NC Medical Examiner Takes Over Case

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — The death of a young Black man found hanging from a tree in a downtown Raleigh parking lot Saturday afternoon is drawing grief from his family and close attention from community advocates, as Raleigh police continue to investigate the case as a suicide.

Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce said Monday afternoon that video obtained from nearby businesses shows what took place Saturday.

At the site where he was found, a small memorial has been placed in his memory.

Boyce said the man’s mother asked police to share that her 32-year-old son had previously struggled with mental health issues. He also said she has been deeply upset by speculation spreading online about his death.

“She is not happy about what has been shared online,” Boyce said.

Mayor Janet Cowell said she is mourning alongside the family, while Boyce described difficult conversations he has had with the victim’s mother in the days since the incident.

Questions about the circumstances surrounding the downtown Raleigh death have circulated widely on social media, leading ABC11 to report on the incident because it happened in a public area and because of the nature of what occurred.

Boyce said the victim’s mother is grateful for the information Raleigh police have shared with her.

“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 through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8.

Download the ABC11 News app