Shots need not be fatal

Sat., Aug. 31, 2013

It’s been a long time since I wrote a letter to a newspaper editor, but the Aug. 23 headlines are so very distressing, I must. The irony jumps out at me. I’m sure lots of other readers connect the two headlines, of “never say die” at top of page (which has nothing at all to do with the other headline), as it reads “police fatally shoot man after he rams into vehicles.”

Upon further reading, it becomes clear that this is another mentally ill individual shot dead. Now, I love police. I am grateful daily for their protection, and the cops I have met in my life have been lovely human beings.

But what is wrong with shooting to wound, I ask? In this case, I realize it may not have been possible. But multiple gunshots to a sitting duck in a truck? Please, someone, help me understand this.

The whole scenario is sickening and tragic.

Dianne Cook

Spokane

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