Friends and family of George Zimmerman, the neighborhood watch volunteer who shot 17-year-old Trayvon Martin to death, are remaining largely out of sight. The few who have defended Zimmerman did so reluctantly, most fearing public backlash.

The 28-year-old Zimmerman has gone into hiding. His version of what happened on the rainy night of Feb. 26 has only trickled out from police and his attorney. Zimmerman told police he was attacked by Martin.

He said he fired in self-defense and he was not charged, touching off widespread public outrage and protests across the country.

Martin's supporters believe race played a role in the shooting. Unlike Zimmerman's supporters, they have packed churches, swarmed rallies and worn hooded sweat shirts in solidarity.