Goetz, Bernard (1947-)

David A. Mackey

In the mid-afternoon of December 22, 1984, Bernard Goetz shot four African American males, Barry Allen, Darrell Cabey, Troy Canty, and James Ramseur, while riding the number 2 train in New York City. The incident began when Goetz was approached by Troy Canty, who asked how Goetz was doing. Goetz interpreted the inquiry as a prelude to a mugging. Canty asked for and then demanded money from Goetz. Goetz produced a .38 caliber handgun and shot the four youth. Goetz was indicted on criminal charges, including attempted murder, but was convicted only of illegal possession of a handgun. However, in a civil trial, damages of $43 million were awarded to Darrell Cabey, who was paralyzed and suffered brain damage as a result of the shooting. This case generated great controversy, especially concerning the justification of vigilantism, and it is important to the study of race and crime because the incident ...

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