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New Book Explores Race and Vigilantism in Goetz Shooting

1/24/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Elliot Williams, a CNN legal analyst and former federal prosecutor, released his first book, "Five Bullets," on January 20, 2026.
The book examines the 1984 Bernie Goetz subway shooting, where four unarmed Black teenagers were shot, sparking debate on race and vigilantism.
He aims to offer a nuanced view of fear and media bias.
He will discuss the book at Greenlight Bookstore in Brooklyn on February 11, underscoring its relevance.

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Story summary

Elliot Williams, a CNN legal analyst and former federal prosecutor, released his first book, "Five Bullets," on January 20, 2026.
The book examines the 1984 Bernie Goetz subway shooting, where four unarmed Black teenagers were shot, sparking debate on race and vigilantism.
He aims to offer a nuanced view of fear and media bias.
He will discuss the book at Greenlight Bookstore in Brooklyn on February 11, underscoring its relevance.