The murder of a security guard earlier this month shocked the Waverly community.
Seventy-two-year-old Charles Bowman was picking up dinner at a neighborhood carry-out restaurant when he was shot during a robbery.
Just two days later, a 22-year-old was shot on the street just blocks from a busy farmer’s market.
Now Waverly residents are firing back.
“No violence, discord, disrespect in our lives and livelihoods around or on this historic and prosperous common ground,” said a resident.
The rash of recent crime in the Waverly community has prompted city police to increase patrols.
“If you’re going to come to Greenmount with your bad behavior, we’ve got something in store for you,” said Jack Young, City Council president.
Now, a community effort is being launched to send a positive message to visitors urging them to continue coming to Waverly.
“I shop, live and own a business here, and we want people to feel comfortable coming here,” said a businesswoman.
Residents took to the streets in a solidarity walk from north to south Waverly Street.
“Walk because you care about this neighborhood, and you want to keep it great,” said police chief.
“In the face of adversity, Baltimore’s true spirit shines through. We know that our best days are ahead of us,” said a resident.
With doors re-opening of the neighborhood firehouse, residents hope for the best.
“That adds to the whole stability of the neighborhood when public servants are there 24 hours a day, it can’t hurt,” said Gordy Lifson.
The Waverly fire station has been closed since June for major repairs and renovations.
source:wjz.com
