29/06/2025
I’ve been sitting with this for the past few days, debating whether to say something about this recent shooting. I don’t post much anymore, but this one hits close to home. The young man fighting for his life isn’t just another name in the headlines—he’s someone I know. He grew up in my church. I spent many Sundays giving him high fives and seeing him in our kids’ program during the week. This one is personal.
As a Fi****ms Instructor, I’ve seen many of my peers weighing in, saying, “We don’t have all the facts,” or “Let’s wait for more information.” Some are suggesting the boys may have been trying to rob the man and that he had a right to defend himself.
I watched the video. Out of respect for the family, I’m not sharing it here—but it’s easy to find if you really want to see it. What I saw was a man who appeared ready—kneeling, waiting, already on edge. As far as we know, no weapons were found on the young people, and from the footage I saw, he had options. He had a bicycle. He had space. He could’ve walked or rode away. He could’ve gone back inside the building and called 911. That’s what I teach my students: retreat if you can. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way.
Maybe more footage will come out. Maybe there’s more to the story. But what I saw tells me enough: he had time. And instead of leaving, he stayed.
Now I’ll say this plainly—if you’re afraid of the youth you’re supposed to be protecting, you’re in the wrong job. If you’re a lifeguard and feel threatened by the very community you’re hired to serve, then transfer. Quit. Do something else. But don’t keep putting yourself in positions where fear becomes the excuse for deadly force.
I know some folks will say I’m jumping to conclusions. But I’ve trained enough people and seen enough to know: when there’s time to choose peace and you still choose violence—that’s a problem.
Instructor Ruckus
According to a police report obtained by the I-Team, investigators said the lifeguard charged with murder has a concealed carry license, and he told officers he was defending himself after he claims the teens attacked and followed him and tried to steal his bike.
