Black Construction Worker Shot 7 Times in Possible Hate Crime

A Black construction worker in Stockton, California, was shot seven times in what is being investigated as a possible hate crime.

In a statement from the Stockton Police Department obtained by People on Thursday, Bobby Gayle, a cement mason and father of five, “had been shot multiple times” just before 11:30 p.m. on October 8.

While speaking to KCRA 3, brother Marlon Gayle said Bobby was preparing to do some work with a friend near the Wells Fargo Bank on Pacific Avenue near Rivara Road when a driver going backward almost hit them.

“My brother threw his hands up, was like, ‘Hey, man, slow down. What’s going on, like slow down,’” Marlon said.

According to Marlon, the alleged shooter “parked his truck, got out, and he started saying the N-word and just started shooting.”

In a surveillance video obtained by KCRA 3, Bobby is seen with his hands up as the gunman shoots at him.

Marlon said two of the shots hit Bobby in his face but did not strike major arteries.

Fortunately, Bobby survived the attack and managed to call Marlon afterward, saying, “Marlon, I’ve been shot. Pray for me. I swear to God. Please. In the name of Jesus. Hallelujah.”

As reported by People, Bobby is said to be in stable condition.

Per their statement, police say the “shooter is a short, white male, in his thirties, wearing a dark-colored jacket and jeans.”

“The shooter’s vehicle is described as a late model Chevrolet Silverado extended cab truck with aftermarket chrome-colored wheels and tint on the back three windows,” they continued.

During this difficult time, Marlon says he and his family are relying on their faith for strength and guidance.

“We believe in love. We believe in forgiveness, but at the same time, white supremacy, hatred, bigotry, and all of that — we stand against that,” he said.

People says a $10,000 reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest.

“We take these types of crimes very seriously and so we’re investigating it to the fullest. We have some detectives assigned to it, as well as an officer that’s assigned to the FBI task force,” assistant police Chief Jim Chraska said in a statement obtained by KCRA 3.