The Death Of A Black Man Found Hanging From A Tree In Prince George’s County Stirred Pain And Questions Before Maryland’s Medical Examiner Ruled His Death A Suicide
A Black man found hanging from a tree in Prince George’s County, Maryland, died by suicide, according to the state medical examiner, as county officials work to address concerns raised by the disturbing circumstances of his death.
Prince George’s County police were called to the 9300 block of D’Arcy Road in the Upper Marlboro area shortly before 8 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 20. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Detectives immediately opened a death investigation, interviewing witnesses and examining evidence while the Maryland Office of the Chief Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy.
On Monday, the medical examiner determined that the man died by suicide by hanging and found no other signs of trauma on his body. Police have said investigators have found no evidence of foul play, though detectives are continuing their investigation to develop a fuller picture of the circumstances surrounding his death.
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Discovery Raises Painful Questions In The Community
The circumstances of the death quickly drew concern in Prince George’s County, particularly because the deceased was Black and was found hanging from a tree — an image carrying a painful history of racial terror and lynching in the United States.
Prince George’s County Councilmember Wala Blegay acknowledged that history while calling for transparency as authorities investigated.
“I also recognize the fear and pain this incident has caused, particularly given the painful history associated with the image of a Black man hanging from a tree,” Blegay said in a statement.
She added that “the community deserves a thorough investigation and transparency as the facts develop.”
County Executive Aisha Braveboy and Prince George’s County Police Chief George Nader also met with residents following the discovery, addressing questions about the investigation and discussing mental health resources available to the community.
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“I know this incident has been deeply upsetting for many residents who witnessed the scene or heard about it throughout the day,” Braveboy said.
At a Monday briefing, officials also sought to counter speculation spreading online about the man’s death. Police Chief Nader said investigators reviewed evidence, including video showing the man alone before his death. Officials maintained that investigators had uncovered no evidence suggesting another person was responsible.
Police Investigation Continues
Although the medical examiner has ruled the death a suicide, Prince George’s County police said detectives will continue reviewing evidence and speaking with people who knew the man.
Police said the department understands the death has been “disturbing and painful” for residents who either witnessed the scene or learned about it afterward. Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact detectives at 301-516-2512.
People experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
