Dan White’s Death Reopens Tragic Story (Press, 27 November 1985)
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Summary: Dan White’s Death Reopens Tragic Story (Press, 27 November 1985)
Dan White, who shot and killed San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and gay city councillor Harvey Milk in 1978, has taken his own life, reigniting the deep-seated tensions and animosities that surfaced following the murders. White, who held resentment towards both men—stemming from his frustration over not being reinstated as a councillor and his animosity towards Milk’s sexual orientation—was convicted of manslaughter in a controversial trial that argued he had "diminished capacity" due to a mental breakdown. This verdict prompted a violent backlash from the LGBTQ+ community, resulting in riots that left 160 injured and significant property damage. After serving about five years in prison and a year on parole, White returned to a community that largely viewed him as unrepentant for his crimes. He lived a reclusive life, shunning public attention and attempting to write a book while staying away from people who might retaliate against him. Ultimately, overwhelmed by his circumstances and reportedly expressing a desire to start anew in Ireland, White died by suicide at the age of 39, using carbon monoxide in his car. His death was described as the "final chapter," but instead, it reopened the wounds from the past, with extensive media coverage sparking a renewed discussion about the killings and the societal rifts they exposed. Many in San Francisco have since reflected on White's actions, viewing him with contempt for his crimes, while others expressed sympathy for his struggles and isolation. This resurgence of debate illustrated that the underlying prejudices and pain caused by the murders seven years prior had not faded. A city known for its supposed tolerance continues to grapple with the legacy of hatred and violence that White’s actions unleashed. The lack of remorse expressed by White added to the collective grief felt by those who lost friends and loved ones in the tragic events connected to him, further complicating the community's healing process. As one councillor poignantly noted, the saddest aspect of all was that Dan White never said he was sorry.
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