They start at the break of day before most power-walkers or commuters have hit the pavement, bands of older Chinese residents converging on Boston Common to exercise and chat. Many practice graceful routines of tai chi, an ancient form of martial arts. Others take brisk walks, circling the Frog Pond and scaling the State House hill.
Sheng Hao Tang, 70, was among this group until Sunday, when he was beaten to death on his way home from his morning constitutional. His killing has sent shock waves of fear among this community of older Chinese residents who frequent the park, finding it a social refuge. Some say they are less carefree since Tang’s death.
Many have changed their routes walking to and from the park, avoiding secluded areas and frequently looking over their shoulders. Police are also stepping up patrols of the area.
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“When we go to the ground, you are in my world. The ground is the ocean, I am the shark, and most people don’t even know how to swim.” RCJ Machado