Black Man Found Hung in New York: Questions Surround Police Ruling

By Erika Lindsay, Staff Reporter – June 22, 2025

Albany, NY — Tension is mounting in Albany after the discovery of a 58-year-old Black man found hanging from a tree on Westerlo Street last Wednesday, June 18. While authorities have ruled the death a suicide, members of the community — including individuals claiming to be family — are pushing back, demanding further investigation and answers.

According to the Albany Police Department, the preliminary findings indicate no signs of foul play. In an official statement, police said the evidence so far "appears to be consistent with suicide" and added that they "have no reason at this time to believe the incident is criminal in nature." However, they have not released the man’s name or detailed any findings beyond that brief conclusion.

That silence has only deepened suspicion.

Community members quickly took to social media to voice their concerns. Within hours of the police statement, posts began circulating identifying the man as Earl Smith, a longtime Albany resident. A GoFundMe campaign launched shortly after claims to be raising funds for funeral expenses, further fueling speculation and emotional reactions online.

A woman identifying herself as Smith’s niece posted a video disputing the official narrative. “My uncle was a happy soul,” she said. “He did not hang himself. He had plans, he had people who loved him, and he wasn’t in that kind of place mentally.” She also questioned why police haven’t released or reviewed surveillance footage from nearby buildings. “There are cameras all over Westerlo Street,” she said. “Why isn’t anyone asking to see the video?”

Residents echo her frustration. Several have pointed out what they perceive as a rushed ruling from the department and the lack of public transparency. Some have begun organizing a candlelight vigil and community meeting to call for an independent investigation into the circumstances of Smith’s death.

“This is not just about one man,” said community activist Jalen Thomas. “It’s about how quickly Black lives are written off without answers. We’ve seen this before, and we won’t let it slide this time.”

Police have not responded to calls for further comment, and it remains unclear whether additional information — including autopsy results or surveillance footage — will be released in the coming days.

In a city still grappling with issues of race, trust in law enforcement, and mental health awareness, the death of Earl Smith has reignited old wounds and sparked urgent new questions. For many, the official story simply does not sit right — and they’re determined to keep asking until they get the truth.