A gay, Jewish college student’s brutal murder lands his killer behind bars for life, exposing the dark underbelly of hate crimes in America.
At a Glance
- Samuel Woodward, 27, sentenced to life without parole for the murder of Blaze Bernstein
- Bernstein, a University of Pennsylvania sophomore, was stabbed repeatedly in the face and neck
- Woodward linked to neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division; evidence of targeting gay men online
- Case sparked public outcry and led to “Blaze it Forward” campaign promoting kindness
Justice Served in Brutal Hate Crime
Samuel Woodward, 27, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of Blaze Bernstein, a gay, Jewish college student. The case, which shocked Southern California and the nation, has finally reached its conclusion after years of delays. Woodward was convicted of first-degree murder with a hate crime enhancement, reflecting the brutal nature of the crime and its motivation.
Blaze Bernstein, a promising sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania, disappeared in January 2018. His body was later discovered in a shallow grave, bearing the marks of a vicious attack – multiple stab wounds to the face and neck. The brutality of the murder and the circumstances surrounding it quickly led investigators to suspect a hate crime.
Neo-Nazi Connections and Targeting of Gay Men
The investigation uncovered Woodward’s disturbing connections to the violent anti-gay, neo-Nazi extremist group Atomwaffen Division. Prosecutors presented damning evidence of Woodward’s history of targeting gay men online and maintaining a hateful journal. These findings painted a clear picture of a troubled individual consumed by hatred and bigotry.
Authorities searched Woodward’s home and discovered a black Atomwaffen mask, a bloodied knife, and hate group materials. These findings solidified the prosecution’s case that the murder was premeditated and motivated by Woodward’s extremist beliefs.
A Family’s Fight for Justice and Kindness
Blaze Bernstein’s family has channeled their grief into action, launching the “Blaze it Forward” campaign to promote acts of kindness in Blaze’s memory. This initiative serves as a counterpoint to the hatred that took their son’s life, encouraging people to combat intolerance with compassion and understanding.
