A Vulgar Display Of Power: Courage And Carnage At The Alrosa Villa (Book)

On December 8th, 1980, a lone gunman took the life of John Lennon, one of rock 'n' roll's most iconic personalities. Almost to the minute, 24 years later, heavy metal's most beloved guitarist, "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott, was tragically murdered while performing at the Alrosa Villa in Columbus, Ohio. It was a night filled with tragedy, yet it was offset by exceptional heroism. Jeffrey "Mayhem" Thompson, Erin Halk, and Nathan Bray each lost their lives while trying to aid Dimebag and protect the lives of hundreds of people from an armed killing machine.

"A Vulgar Display of Power" tells the true story of the events leading up to the tragic murders. It peers into the twisted mind and background of a killer intoxicated by psychotic rage and driven by the voice of the beast inside his head. "A Vulgar Display of Power" attempts to make sense of what appears to be a senseless act. Unlike books that only focus on the evil of the killer or the fruits of the crime, "A Vulgar Display of Power" also extols the inspirational selflessness of those who died trying to help others. Within its pages, readers will meet and experience the lives of Erin Halk, Jeff Thompson, and Nathan Bray. In addition, the book contains a moving tribute to "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott with contributions from fans, rock stars, and friends.

Supported by approximately 200 never-before-published personal photographs, and augmented by actual crime scene photos, the lives of those lost and the events of the sad evening of December 8th, 2004 will clearly come into focus. "A Vulgar Display of Power" dispels the myths and presents the complex facts behind the horrific murders at the Alrosa Villa. As tragic as the event was, readers will be left in awe by the courage and compassion demonstrated by so many people.

The actions of the Columbus Police Department, various fire department and rescue squads, plus many of the Alrosa's staff and patrons reflect the selfless courage of humanity even at times of great distress. Written with a focus on taste, class, and dignity readers are sure to close the last page of this masterpiece with seemingly rival emotions of sadness and pride. What is certain is that anyone who reads "A Vulgar Display of Power" will never forget "Dimebag" Darrell Abbott nor the incredible sacrifices of Nathan Bray, Erin Halk, or Jeff Thompson.