Tyras McKinney, 27, was shot and killed on June 20, 2019, at Clippers Barbershop on South Adams Street in Tallahassee, Florida. A respected barber, he was killed in front of his young son; the boy was briefly grabbed and threatened with a gun during the incident before being released. McKinney is remembered for his dedication to his profession and his love for his fiancée and son.

Authorities charged 29-year-old Xaver Barkley with first-degree murder, kidnapping, and aggravated assault in connection with McKinney’s death. Barkley was arrested by Tallahassee police and held without bond. Court proceedings have focused on Barkley’s mental state; he was found mentally incompetent to stand trial and transferred to a state psychiatric hospital. His reported prior charges include aggravated assault with a firearm, battery on a law enforcement officer, and burglary with assault.

Why do readers who lived in Tallahassee or knew Tyras or the barbershop think this case still resonates in the community?