Homeless Vet:Do you know who beat Blue to death in Tucson?

Homeless Man Beaten Then Found Dead

Posted: April 14, 2008 05:54 PM EDT

Homeless Man Beaten Then Found Dead


KOLD News Reporter, Suleika Acosta

Virtually the only thing a Tucson veteran had was taken from him Sunday night: his life. The circumstances surrounding this murder are disturbing. Police say he was beaten and then found dead.

With no place to call home, the victim known as 'Blue' slept in a desert area near Ajo and Palo Verde. He'd been living on the streets 15 years.

Friends say Blue was a special person that lived a rough life all too common.

"We've got to battle for every meal we get."

Life on Tucson streets doesn't get easier with time. Just ask Gene Rickman. He shared the street selling papers with Blue.

"He's out here everyday just trying to make an honest living like the rest of us."

Gene was shocked to learn Sunday night Blue was found dead. Pima County Sheriff's investigators say three men beat the 67-year-old. The men responsible are still on the loose.

Friends say Blue was a veteran who had drinking problems but he was known as a peacekeeper in his neighborhood.

"He also tried to keep order out there with all the drunks, tried to keep the fighting down. He always protected us," says Renee, the victim's friend.

Mark Kessler delivers newspapers to the homeless every morning.

"Blue's been doing it a long time, he'll be missed," says Mark.

The homeless buy these papers and then sell them. For many, it's barely enough to get a hot meal. Despite his tough circumstances, Mark says Blue was a hard worker.

"Life on the corner is pretty tough but he was always in a good mood, smiling, happy to see me in the morning bringing papers."

Friends say Blue wasn't a loner. His best friend was a dog. Pima Animal Care Center is treating Blue's dog for a possible stab wound. The dog remains homeless but his companion is gone.


"It was totally uncalled for and it should have never happened," adds Gene.

Call 911 or 88Crime if you have any information that could help investigators track down the suspects.
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