Homicide hits hard in a small town
Friday, May 12, 2000
Steamboat Springs — When a tragedy such as a murder hits a small town, most people are impacted by it, even if they don't know the victim, according to local experts.
"It affects everyone," Steamboat Mental Health director Tom Gangel said. "People start to recognize that it's close to home. They think 'It could happen to me or my loved ones or my family.'"
Even if fellow residents doesn't know the victim, often his or her face is familiar to them, Gangel said.
"Usually you've seen these folks before and you get around to recognizing them," Gangel said. "It makes everything a little more visceral."
With that in mind, Gangel said Steamboat Mental Health is available for counseling services. He recommended that those close to the victim talk to someone they feel comfortable with or seek counseling. He said that in these situations, most workplaces do offer sessions for co-workers to talk.
"You hear other people talk and you're asking 'Why should I feel this way or why aren't I feeling anything?' You realize that you are fairly normal," he said.
Advocates Against Battering and Abuse responds to the scene of many crimes, including the Lori Bases murder.
"If people want to call and get general support, we're available," said Diane Moore, the executive director.
To reach Jennifer Bartlett call 871-4204 or e-mail jbartlett@amigo.net
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