For those who haven't been closely following this tragic story, here's a primer on the awful facts surrounding the death of Trayvon Martin. There is plenty in here to warrant outrage .
This Is Trayvon Martin
Trayvon Martin was a 17-year-old from Miami Gardens, Florida. His parents were separated and he lived with his mother, Sybrina Fulton. His father, Tracy Martin, lives in Sanford, Florida. Trayvon is described by his parents as a hero. "At the age of nine, Trayvon pulled his father from a burning kitchen, saving his life," said Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin in a joint statement. "He loved sports and horseback riding. At only 17 he had a bright future ahead of him with dreams of attending college and becoming an aviation mechanic."
(AP / HO, Martin Family Photos)
This Is George Zimmerman
George Zimmerman is a 28-year-old resident of Sanford, Florida, where Trayvon Martin's father, Tracy Martin, is also a resident. Zimmerman was a self-appointed neighborhood watchman who had called the Sanford 911 nearly 50 times since January to report suspicious behavior. He himself has had run-ins with the law, including an arrest in 2005 for assaulting a law enforcement officer (where the mugshot above was taken) and allegations of domestic violence.
(AP / Orange County Jail via Miami Herald)
The Night Of February 26th
Trayvon Martin was visiting his father in Sanford, Florida on the evening of February, 26th, 2012. They were watching the NBA All Star game at his father's girlfriend's home when Trayvon decided to go to the local 7-11 and buy some snacks for everyone. Trayvon purchased Skittles and Arizona Iced Tea.
(Getty Images / Joe Raedle)
The Walk Home
It was a rainy night on February, 26th. Trayvon was wearing a hoodie as he headed back from the 7-11. His path took him by the gated community of Twin Lakes, where George Zimmerman lived.
(Reuters / David Manning)
