In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the untimely death of Ernest Terrell Newkirk, a gay Black man, has left the LGBTQ community in Washington, D.C., in mourning. Newkirk, 55, was discovered lifeless on a D.C. street this past May, a tragedy that has raised numerous questions about the circumstances surrounding his demise.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for the District of Columbia recently revealed that Newkirk’s cause of death was “acute ethanol intoxication,” a condition resulting from alcohol poisoning. Shockingly, this conclusion categorizes his death as accidental. However, this revelation has done little to alleviate the concerns of Newkirk’s loved ones and the broader LGBTQ community.
Additionally, the medical examiner pointed to other contributing factors, including “hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease” (linked to high blood pressure) and “end-stage renal disease of unknown etiology” (referring to kidney conditions). These health complications further complicate the already perplexing circumstances of his passing.
Ernest Terrell Newkirk was known and cherished within Washington, D.C.’s LGBTQ community. A longtime resident of the city, he had a rich history, having worked as a chef for the NBA’s Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena and owning a successful landscaping business. His active involvement in the local LGBTQ community made him a beloved figure, leaving many shocked and saddened by his sudden loss.
Roger Turpin, Newkirk’s longtime partner, who last saw him on the night he went missing after attending a Black Pride event at the Ugly Mug bar, remains understandably devastated. With Newkirk’s phone, wallet, and jewelry missing at the time of his discovery, and his car located a mile away from where his body was found a week later, questions linger. Turpin, understandably distraught, has not yet commented on the recent medical examiner’s findings.
The Metropolitan Police Department has an ongoing investigation into the matter but has not provided specific details regarding the medical examiner’s conclusions. Although they stated that foul play does not appear to be a factor in Newkirk’s death, the LGBTQ community continues to seek answers and justice for their beloved member.
The loss of Ernest Terrell Newkirk has sent shockwaves through Washington, D.C.’s LGBTQ community, leaving them grappling with sorrow and a deep desire for clarity surrounding the circumstances that led to this tragic accident. As the investigation continues, many hope that more details will emerge, shedding light on this heartbreaking incident.