March 3rd 2024.
Archie Claybon, a hardworking business owner, was met with a shocking and devastating sight on the morning of February 20th in Eureka, California. His work truck had been spray painted with a derogatory racial slur and set on fire. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning and Claybon was informed by the Eureka Police around 2 A.M. He and his fiancée rushed to the scene, where they were met by officers at the end of the block.
As Claybon approached his beloved 2004 Ford F-350, he could only watch in despair as it burned before his eyes. The truck, which he had spent over $10,000 customizing for his tile business, was now destroyed, not to mention the cost of the truck itself. To add insult to injury, the authorities confirmed that the racial slurs were painted onto the exterior of the truck.
"It's Black History Month, and they put the n-word on my truck," Claybon shared with the Outpost. "I just feel like whoever did this, they have some deep-rooted issues and a whole other level of racism. It's like the modern-day equivalent of having a cross burned on my front porch in 2024."
As Claybon tried to make sense of the senseless act, he couldn't think of anyone who would want to harm him or his business. He openly admitted that he was unsure if it was a personal vendetta or if it was someone who had an issue with where he had been parking his truck for the past few weeks. He explained that he had received complaints in the past about leaving his truck parked in one spot for too long, but nothing that would justify such a hateful and destructive act.
"Many have asked me, 'How would the perpetrator know I'm Black?' Well, my last name says it all," Claybon stated, highlighting the sad reality of racial profiling.
The incident not only took an emotional toll on Claybon but also a financial one. He had invested nearly $50,000 into his truck for various upgrades, such as the engine, transmission, four-wheel drive, wrap, paint, rims, and a full makeover. "It was practically brand new, with the leather seats being the only original parts," he recalled.
With the financial burden weighing heavily, Claybon considered starting a GoFundMe, as he was unsure if his insurance claim would cover the full value of his truck and the loss his business would suffer while it was out of commission. However, he decided to take a different approach and asked for support in a different way.
"If anyone wants to help, please spread the word about my business," Claybon expressed. "I tile, you smile. I've faced many challenges in my journey, but with a little hard work, determination, and support from my community, I know I can overcome this too."
As the Eureka Police Department continues their investigation, Claybon remains hopeful that justice will be served. It is a sad reality that in today's society, acts of racism and hatred still occur, but it is through unity and support that we can overcome and rise above such senseless acts.
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