SAN ANTONIO -- A few days after he was fired for sending an e-mail to a San Antonio city councilwoman, a 52-year-old man took his life Thursday morning.

George Dickerson, a long-time worker for Zachry Construction Corporation, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said.

Sgt. David Scepanski, of the San Antonio Police Department, said that a family member found Dickerson in the back yard of his home.

Dickerson left a suicide note.

"It basically said there was some recent events that weighed very heavily on him," Scepanski said.

On Monday, Dickerson sent an e-mail complaining about a nightclub near his home from his company server to Councilwoman Elena Guajardo.

The e-mail said that the club, Graham Central Station, which is located across the street from Dickerson's subdivision, was increasing the crime rate by "enticing undesirable, low-class elements from bad parts of the city."

He also complained about the club's entertainment, calling it "lewd, lascivious and low class."

Dickerson also suggested in the e-mail that the city should move the club to "the lower class, bad parts of the city."

He also sent another e-mail to Guajardo, saying that his first e-mail was "completely confidential and not for public distribution."

Guajardo, who said that the e-mail was "racial and discriminatory," contacted Zachry officials. Dickerson was then fired for what company officials said was a violation of company's computer use.

When asked about the e-mails Thursday, Guajardo declined to address the issue, saying it wasn't the proper time.

"I think of him, the feeling of no hope," she said. "That really saddens me. And I think at this time ... we'll be praying for his family. Praying for all the confusion, the loss and the pain that is going on right now."

Zachry released the following statement regarding Dickerson's death:

"We are shocked and deeply saddened to learn of George's death. The thoughts and prayers of the Zachry family and organization are with George's family. We regret that this matter became public and evolved into a personal tragedy."

Dickerson was described by family members as a kind man who loved antiques.

His family is said to be distraught and are planning to make a statement at a later time.

Additional Resource:

• Read E-Mails Sent To Guajardo