This past week, news surfaced that a 24-year-old Black man by the name of Robert Fuller was found hanging from a tree in Palmdale, California on Wednesday (June 10). Unfortunately, now we’re learning of another similar incident that took place 50 miles away from that city.
According to reports, another Black man named Malcolm Harsch was found hanging from a tree in Victorville, California on May 31 — 10 days prior to Fuller’s incident — near a homeless encampment. There aren’t many details surrounding this other mysterious death, as of yet. However, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department says that a full investigation to discover what happened is underway. Law enforcement officials are adding, however, that they don’t suspect foul play, as the analysis takes place. Harsch’s family is awaiting the results of the investigation, as well.
REVOLT previously reported on Fuller’s death after it failed to get national attention. “Words can’t describe how much my family is hurting right now,” Diamond Alexander, his sister, captioned a photo of her late brother on Thursday (June 11) on Facebook. “Today we just got word that Robert body was found hanging in a tree out in Palmdale. It’s still under investigation. If anyone seen anything please come forward. Brother you will forever be in our heart. RIP.”
Authorities said that they suspect Fuller’s death to be a suicide. However, family members of his and residents of the Californian city aren’t buying it. A large group of residents headed to Palmdale City Council chambers soon after news broke about the young man’s death to demand answers.
“We will fully cooperate with the Sheriff’s Department, the Los Angeles County’s Coroner’s Offices, and any and all investigative agencies looking into the matter,” Palmdale Mayor Steven D. Hofbauer said. “We are awaiting all available details surrounding this tragedy. In addition, we are working with local community leaders to increase the dialogue on how we can best work together and build a safer and more inclusive community.”