NEW : ` ` A race problem in America is sadly alive and well , '' radio host Ben Ferguson says . The racial factor propelled it into a national tragedy . Without the race issue , it would have been merely a local tragedy . Despite the frustration on one side of the verdict , Ferguson approved of the judge 's decision .
NEW : `` A race war in America is sadly alive and well , '' radio host Ben Ferguson says . The race factor propelled it into a national story . Without the race issue , it would have been merely a local tragedy . Despite the frustration on one side of the verdict , others approved of the jury 's decision .