Florida Man Charged with Hate Crime-Enhanced Murder in Dog Park Shooting

Gerald Declan Radford faces second-degree murder charges for the fatal shooting of John Walter Lay, with prosecutors seeking a hate crime enhancement due to alleged homophobic slurs.

Gerald Declan Radford, 65, was charged with second-degree murder in the death of John Walter Lay, 52, at a Tampa dog park.
Prosecutors allege Radford used homophobic slurs against Lay prior to the shooting, seeking a hate crime enhancement.
Friends of Lay suggest the attack was premeditated, citing ongoing harassment and a threatening video recorded by Lay.
LGBTQ advocacy groups criticize Florida's 'Stand Your Ground' law, arguing it endangers lives by justifying murder without consequence.
The case has sparked a broader discussion on hate crimes and self-defense laws in Florida.