Albuquerque Muslim Killings: Likely Not Hate Crime but Possible Mental Health and Violence

Interesting turn of events in the case of The Albuquerque killing of 4 Muslim. At the current time it does not appear the killings were hate related but stemming from other events (Still undefined). We never really know something until there is an investigation and we understand events from a more hindsight and factual basis. That is why it is often best before making definitive conclusions and statements (Possibilities and probabilities are more accurate.)

Apparently, there were three other prior domestic violence charges brought against the alleged perpetrator and subsequently dismissed. Likewise, some movement of rifles and weaponry (Was this related to easy access? We probably have people who study these issues.). No indication yet of mental health issues (Looking at each case leads to greater understanding of why and how certain behaviors unfold. I have seen the destructiveness of hate sparked by mental health. We need better systems of managing it and holding to account poor behavior in an empathetic way.)

It will be interesting to find out if there was a specific issues that caused the dispute. We may also want to understand if there was prior violence overseas (Historical perspective). In other words, a full understanding of the history of such individual could tell us about how we vet and manage such issues in the future.

There is a point to be made here. Assumptions are hard to make in many cases. One could easily jump to conclusions, and I do this sometimes as well, but should always be open to the possibility of alternative explanations. Having an open mind and willing to accept facts, and their strength, as they come is important for better decision making. 

In this case, targeting 4 Muslim men was all over the news. It is still a factual statement, however it may not be a hate crime or indicative of what actually happened (It happens. Its part of journalism to explain and we often explain concepts based on limited information.). Before we can solve our problems we must see things for what they are and that means being open to objective facts. The more detail we have, the more we can define the issue.

Let us see what the case brings....

Suspect in the killings of Muslim men in Albuquerque makes his first court appearance

You may want to look at a study on community based violence. While the study doesn't specifically state this and focuses on kids within communities there is a sense of community inclusion and exclusion factors (Another argument for universalization of values and institutions so that major sectors of society are tied to a shared perspective). Studying these factors helps us to think about how individuals and groups are formed and why they select their target(s). That also leads to the creation of better detection methods that in turn helps families targeted by hate and rage. 

Community Violence in Context: Risk and Resilience in Children and Families

(Before you get all excited I and write about those things in our society that are of a major concern. You will find posts on science, economy, politics, and extremism which are all national development issues. I am trying to understand and I think along that process it could be helpful to others. Perhaps someday we may get lucky and find a solution or two. I know In know!!! I do have a Muslim sounding name!)

.

Aisenberg E, Herrenkohl T. Community Violence in Context: Risk and Resilience in Children and Families. Journal of Interpersonal Violence. 2008;23(3):296-315. doi:10.1177/0886260507312287