Activists hold impromptu march calling guilty verdicts in Arbery trial a historical victory

BRUNSWICK, Ga. — Following the guilty verdict against the three men who killed Ahmaud Arbery, people took to the streets of Brunswick for an impromptu march, celebrating what they believe is a historical victory.

Travis McMichael was found guilty on all counts, including malice murder and felony murder. Greg McMichael and William “Roddie” Bryan were found guilty of felony murder and other charges.

Father and son Greg and Travis McMichael grabbed guns and chased Arbery in a pickup truck after spotting him running through their Satilla Shores subdivision neighborhood on Feb. 23, 2020.

Neighbor William Bryan joined in and recorded the video of Travis McMichael opening fire as Arbery threw punches and made a grab for his shotgun.

Demonstrators, some who’ve been at the courthouse since the beginning of the trial, broke down in emotion following the verdict.

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“God is so good, and it was his plan and it worked just as he planned it,” said one demonstrator who went by the name Mrs. Polite.

Shawn Golden traveled from Gwinnett County with his son Anderson, 10, to hear the verdict read.

“To know the system worked this time is a very big relief,” Shawn Golden said.

“I feel good because we’re finally getting justice,” Anderson Golden said.

While people celebrated and marched, another scene was unfolding behind the courthouse.

A Channel 2 Action News viewer sent Channel 2′s Audrey Washington pictures of Gregory and Travis McMichael leaving the courthouse in handcuffs.

Some activists said they will return to court for sentencing in this case.

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