A medical expert testifying for the defense Friday told jurors Michael Jackson gave himself the fatal injection. Dr. Conrad Murray is charged with involuntary manslaughter and has pleaded not guilty in the singer’s death. Jackson’s legacy surrounds the Apollo Theater and local residents are divided over the untimely death of a beloved – and according to some – misunderstood man.
Robert Harrison, a long term Harlem resident and singer-songwriter, believes Dr. Conrad Murray is responsible for the death of Michael Jackson. “He would be here today if it weren’t for that doctor,” says Harrison. A Gospel singer by training,
Harrison still admired Jackson as he transitioned to pop.
“The whole community was very upset over the way he went down,” says Harrison. “They felt like they lost an icon.” Indeed the entire community was involved in the life of Jackson. The music producer of Jackson’s album dangerous grew up in the Sir Nicholas Houses, only yards away from the Apollo Theater.
Drawings and other Michael Jackson memorabilia
Sa-yeed Muhammed is a street vendor who has set up shop just outside the Apollo. He says his Jackson memorabilia are by far the most popular, and the first to sell out. It’s meaningful to him because Jackson was a “role model” to him as a child.
Harlem residents anxiously await the final decision in the ongoing trial and hope justice will be delivered in remembrance of a talented performer whose end came too soon.
