In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a member of the DC gay community was lost in a tragic murder, as reported in the Blade. Durval Martins was shot and killed while walking home from a bar in Dupont Circle, and police are looking for those responsible. The motives of the killers are currently unclear, but regardless of whether this was specifically a hate crime or just a horrible act of violence, it cannot be tolerated in our community.

Please read this flier and let the authorities know if you have any pertinent information. Also, beyond the fold, Chris of GLOV has some reminders for keeping yourself safe in the District.

Our thoughts are with Durval’s family, friends, and loved ones.

Important Safety Reminders:

** Do not walk alone, especially at night – and don’t let your friends
walk alone. Consider cabs and bikes.

** DO NOT WALK DRUNK OR IMPAIRED – you increase your risk of being targeted.

** If you go the bars, look out for others – if you see someone
walking alone, or you see someone walking drunk, please intervene. You
might save their lives.

** If you feel threatened, call 911 immediately – don’t be embarrassed
- it is better to be safe.

** Do not engage, negotiate, or antagonize. Maintain as much distance
as you can with potential attackers. Stay in well-lit, well-traveled
areas.

** Report any incidents to the Police (911 or to the Gay and Lesbian
Liaison Unit at 877-495-5995).

** Please also report to GLOV, even if you are not comfortable
reporting to the Police: report@glovdc.org

STAY SAFE, AND LOOK OUT FOR EACH OTHER.