The article on “Death in the Family” (12/1) was altogether touching and real. I can relate to Patricia Cade’s turmoil and grief, because I had a brother who was gunned down for no apparent reason Sept. 9, 1991. (What is most difficult is that he was buried on Sept. 14, my birthday, which has never been the same.) His case is still open and still active. I know that people are aware of what happened and likely who the trigger person was, but this society of ours is plagued with deceit, fabrication, terror, threats, and people who, for whatever reason, do not want to get involved. What we need is more neighborhood watches, community meetings, and people who can stand up to these somewhat confused and diabolical individuals.

Columbia Heights