Donald M. Hyatt ( June 7 , 1909 – April 16 , 1989 ) was the mayor of Newport News , Virginia from July 1 , 1962 to June 30 , 1970 . He is perhaps best remembered for participating in a march through downtown Newport News following the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. , despite threats received by the police chief that if he did so , he " would not reach the foot of 25th Street alive . " At the Newport News Victory Arch , he called on the black community of the city to " work together to build this community ... in mutual respect . " He was born in Waynesville , North Carolina and died at Newport News in 1989
assassination
Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr.
Donald M. Hyatt