THE recent hit-and-run that claimed a pedestrian’s life has deeply impacted our community. While the driver has been charged with fleeing the scene, it’s concerning how quickly authorities labeled this as “pedestrian error.”
How can we trust the driver’s word when they fled the scene, leaving the victim to die? Their actions raise serious doubts. How do we know they weren’t distracted, speeding, or texting? Was the driver’s behavior thoroughly investigated?
I recently drove the same road at night. Despite the lack of streetlights, I had no difficulty seeing, even with poor vision, as long as I followed the speed limit and used my headlights. The candles placed by the victim’s family were visible, so how could the driver, with a passenger in the car, not see the pedestrian?
Fleeing the scene undermines any credibility the driver might claim. The victim didn’t receive immediate help because of the driver’s decision to run, compounding their negligence. Labeling this incident as pedestrian error without further investigation sends a dangerous message and avoids holding the driver accountable.
Charging the driver with involuntary manslaughter is essential to reflect the gravity of their actions. A thorough investigation is needed to ensure justice for the victim and their grieving family. We must demand accountability for the safety of everyone on our roads.
Sincerely,
MARI THOMPSON
Saipan, CNMI
