Mueller Lake Park Outdoor Amphitheater
A Question About the Police
RECEIVED Thu., March 13, 2014
Dear Editor,
I was leaving the Austin Music Awards when this tragic chase and subsequent accident happened [“SXSW: Two Dead, 23 Wounded on Red River,” Newsdesk, March 13]. I was walking unknowingly on the sidewalks Downtown a few blocks away. Having lived in Austin for 30 years, this is the sort of thing I don't expect to happen.
This was a horrifying tragedy. I feel deeply for those and for the family of those killed, injured, and shocked.
I must ask this question: What sort of policeman would pursue a high-speed chase in a highly populated area? Surely common sense, a level head, and good judgment which we should require of all on our police force, were shockingly and amazingly lacking here.
I can't help but notice a trend, a string of accidents and tragedies over the last few years involving Austin police acting thoughtlessly, overzealously, and violently. What a contrast to the kind, loving, and peaceful spirit that is our Austin music community.
I was leaving the Austin Music Awards when this tragic chase and subsequent accident happened [“SXSW: Two Dead, 23 Wounded on Red River,” Newsdesk, March 13]. I was walking unknowingly on the sidewalks Downtown a few blocks away. Having lived in Austin for 30 years, this is the sort of thing I don't expect to happen.
This was a horrifying tragedy. I feel deeply for those and for the family of those killed, injured, and shocked.
I must ask this question: What sort of policeman would pursue a high-speed chase in a highly populated area? Surely common sense, a level head, and good judgment which we should require of all on our police force, were shockingly and amazingly lacking here.
I can't help but notice a trend, a string of accidents and tragedies over the last few years involving Austin police acting thoughtlessly, overzealously, and violently. What a contrast to the kind, loving, and peaceful spirit that is our Austin music community.
Paula Zamarra
