TAMPA, Fla. – The death of John Walter Lay, known as “Walt,” at West Dog Park on Feb. 2 has sparked controversy and allegations of a hate crime. Lay’s friends insist that he was targeted for being gay, contradicting the accused shooter Gerald Declan Radford’s claim of self-defense.
According to friends of Lay, Radford had a history of harassing Lay and using anti-gay slurs, creating a hostile environment at the park. Despite Radford’s self-defense assertion, Lay’s loved ones maintain that the shooting was a deliberate act of violence, rooted in hate.
The investigation into Lay’s death has yet to result in any criminal charges, leaving his friends and community seeking justice and closure. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office remains actively involved in the case, with plans to hand over the findings to the State Attorney’s Office once completed.
As details surrounding the morning of the shooting continue to emerge, Lay’s friends reminisce about his presence at the dog park, describing him as someone who brought people together. They express their desire to honor Lay’s memory with a memorial at the park, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and safety for all individuals.
Legal experts weigh in on the case, raising questions about the applicability of self-defense and stand your ground laws in this particular scenario. Law professor Jeffrey Swartz highlights the importance of proportionality in using force for self-defense, suggesting that circumstantial evidence may warrant a trial by jury.
Despite the absence of confirmed witnesses or videos of the shooting, Lay’s friends remain determined to seek justice for their lost friend. They vow to continue advocating for accountability, believing that Lay’s legacy should not be forgotten.
The community remains vigilant, eager for answers and closure in the aftermath of Lay’s tragic death. As the investigation unfolds, tensions rise, and the quest for justice persists among those who knew and cherished John Walter Lay.