Michael Bryant allegedly involved in fatal hit-and-run in Yorkville area of Toronto on Monday night; sources say he faces possible charges of criminal negligence causing death, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death.
The vultures are moving in for the kill. Doesn't matter who they are. The facts do not matter. Reporters interview witnesses. They report to their editors. Information is printed. This is treated as facts.
Rumours, gossip, innuendo. Bike couriers protest in the street. Bloggers make comments, conclusions are drawn by those arrogant enough to think they know the facts.
There are many stakeholders in this incident, who are being judged by past behaviour, which is a good predictor of present behaviour.
Bike couriers are not the most careful and courteous, nor are car drivers.
Couriers have been barred from downtown offices for their behaviour.
Road rage exists.
Politicians have their own issues. Spin doctors exist.
But all of the people have a right to be judged by the facts, which as yet remain unknown. There are lessons to be learned and more rational thinking must be allowed. Follow the letter of the law.
The police need to move slowly and carefully as much is at stake. Real witnesses must be interviewed. Videos collected. A case put together. This public outcry cannot spin into a pretrial. It violates the justice system on which it is based.
You've heard of defensive driving, now you need to practice defensive cycling. Also, demonstrate basic respect for those around you. Take care, somebody out there loves you.
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See also: CTV-Police video (Thurs., Sept. 3.09)
- Police study video of cyclist clinging to vehicle
- Former Ontario Attorney General Michael Bryant now facing charges after cyclist killed
- Michael Bryant's deadly duel
- Ex-minister Bryant resigns CEO post: Reports
- Darcy Allan Sheppard "wanted man" in Edmonton
3 comments:
Vultures just about sums it all up, doesn't it. I thought everyone was innocent until proven guilty but these days the media bandwagon just gathers strength so that by the time any issue gets to a judgement there are too many side issues. It would often seem preferable to live a life like a hermit having nothing to do with television and/or newspapers.
True, Weaver. I remember reading someone's post saying that they only listened to the radio news once a day. Sounds good to me!
When I worked in Philadelphia, I was almost run over by a bike courier going the wrong way on a one-way street.
I have become fed up with the news media here, too. So much speculation, innuendo, downright lying. Screaming, yelling, pointing fingers, blaming... it's all too much.
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