In the quiet community of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, a beloved figure met a tragic and unexpected end. Ben Teague, a 63-year-old male, was known for his significant contributions to the world of translation and his passion for local theater. His life was abruptly cut short on Saturday, April 25, 2009, during what should have been a peaceful gathering of the Town and Gown Players theater group.
Teague was fatally shot in a violent outburst that stunned the community and left a void in the hearts of those who knew him.
The incident unfolded at a social event for the theater enthusiasts, a place of camaraderie and shared artistic passion. The alleged perpetrator was identified as George Zinkhan, a marketing professor at the University of Georgia. In a shocking turn of events, Zinkhan is believed to have opened fire, killing his wife, Marie Bruce, and two other members of the theater group, including Ben Teague. It is reported that Teague was killed while attempting to intervene and protect Zinkhan's estranged wife, who was the apparent target of the attack. Another man, Tom Tanner, also lost his life in the tragic shooting.
The aftermath of the shooting launched a widespread manhunt for Zinkhan, who fled the scene. The community was left to grapple with the senseless violence that had claimed the lives of three of its members. Ben Teague was remembered as a nationally recognized scientific and technical translator who had served as president of the American Translators Association. Beyond his professional achievements, he was a dedicated member of the Town & Gown Players, where he was celebrated for his acting, directing, and his willingness to teach others the craft of set building. His death was a profound loss for both the academic and artistic communities in Athens.
