Vicha Ratanapakdee’s killing sent fear through San Francisco. Five years on, the case sparks controversy again

A rally to raise awareness of anti-Asian violence, near Chinatown in Los Angeles, California, on 20 February 2021. Photograph: Ringo Chiu/AFP/Getty Images

The 2021 killing of 84-year-old Vicha Ratanapakdee sent shock waves through San Francisco and brought national attention to violence against Asian Americans during the pandemic.

This month, five years on, the case has returned to the headlines, sparking renewed controversy. Last week, a jury declined to convict the perpetrator in the attack on charges of murder and elder abuse. Instead, Antoine Watson, 24, was found guilty of manslaughter and assault.