Michael “Mikey” Angel Roman was a loving father, son, significant other, and friend. He was a genuine and fun-loving person whose presence brought warmth and happiness to everyone around him. Michael was special and whether you had just met him for the first time or known him for years, you could tell. He was someone you always wanted around and who somehow always knew the right thing to do or say when it mattered most. He positively impacted the life of every person he came across and had so much more to give. Unfortunately, Michael’s life was tragically cut short when he was murdered at the age of 26. 

On November 20, 1994, Michael met up with a few friends at his place of employment, the Flat Iron Café. After having a few drinks and laughs they decided to visit a friend working at an establishment down the street. Outside of the Flat Iron Café on the walk over, they noticed a group of men who were congregated around a parked car and heckling people. Later that evening Michael decided to call it a night and returned to the Flat Iron Café where he parked his car. Upon trying to leave, he realized the parking lot was being blocked by the congregating group’s vehicle. Michael approached them in his car and requested that they move the vehicle out of the way. The vehicle owner, Samuel Bulgin, arrogantly and with explicit language refused to move the vehicle, so Michael parked his car and began to walk towards the group. During this time Samuel Bulgin reached into his vehicle and retrieved a firearm, holding it behind his back. After a short verbal altercation, Samuel Bulgin brought out his firearm and shot Michael, who was defenseless and outnumbered, three times in the chest. After shooting Michael, Samuel Bulgin got in his vehicle and fled the scene. 

After this senseless and premeditated act, Samuel Bulgin would continue with his life while Michael’s family and friends now had to cope with the unfair and devastating reality that he was gone. Michael’s mother and father having to live every day knowing their only son was taken from them. Michael’s son forced to live a life without his father while his mother faced the reality that the love of her life was gone and she’s on her own. Michael’s family and friends being reminded with every memory that he was gone, and the hole in their hearts remained. 

Almost five years went by before Samuel Bulgin was arrested and tried for aggravated murder. One of the individuals he was with the night of the murder was incarcerated for a drug trafficking conviction and as a part of a plea deal identified Samuel Bulgin as the murderer. During the trial, Samuel Bulgin showed no remorse or regret for his actions. He deliberately smirked at the family members present in the room and often laughed after witnesses gave their testimonials. His body language and actions made it clear that he didn’t care he made the decision to take a life and could do it again.

Samuel Bulgin was convicted of aggravated murder, forgery, and having a weapon while under disability. He was sentenced to 25 years to life in prison and is up for parole in January 2023.

For the past 28 years Michael’s loved ones have lived a nightmare no one should ever have to live. No punishment or hardship Samuel Bulgin has endured can compare to the fact that every dream and wish for Michael’s future will never be achieved. Michael’s family and friends have only memories to hold on to. Everyone who loved Michael was sentenced to a life sentence that can never be undone. Samuel Bulgin made the ultimate decision to take a life and needs to be held accountable for his actions.

Thank you for your support and help.