Family of bus-slaying victim sues suspect, Greyhound, authorities

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a lawsuit filed by the family of a bus-slaying victim against the suspect, Greyhound, and various authorities. Participants explore the implications of the lawsuit, the adequacy of security measures on public transportation, and broader concerns about public safety.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express concern over the lack of security screening for bus passengers in Canada, suggesting that measures should be implemented for longer journeys.
  • Others argue that metal detectors may not be effective against certain weapons, such as ceramic knives.
  • There is speculation about the motivations behind the lawsuit, with some suggesting that the lawyer may not expect to win but aims to pressure Greyhound into a settlement.
  • Some participants believe the lawsuit could serve as a catalyst for improving security measures on public transportation.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential dangers of waiting at bus stops compared to being on the bus itself, with differing opinions on the effectiveness of proposed security measures.
  • There are discussions about the broader implications of public safety and whether cities can be held accountable for not protecting citizens from violence in public spaces.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the effectiveness of proposed security measures or the motivations behind the lawsuit. Multiple competing views remain regarding the adequacy of current safety protocols and the implications of the legal action.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing security measures like metal detectors on buses and public sidewalks. The discussion reflects a range of assumptions about public safety and legal accountability.

rootX
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http://www.cbc.ca/canada/manitoba/story/2008/09/02/mclean-lawsuit.html?ref=rss

Aren't those people acting crazy? How can anyone prevent those random attacks?

The federal ministers of transport and safety are also named in the suit, which claims Greyhound and the government failed to ensure the safety of the traveling public.

The RCMP are also named for allowing the accused killer to remain on the bus for several hours with McLean's body.
 
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rootX said:
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/manitoba/story/2008/09/02/mclean-lawsuit.html?ref=rss

Aren't those people acting crazy? How can anyone prevent those random attacks?

There is absolutely no screening for going on a bus in Canada. There probably should be some on those that are above an hour or two.

My thoughts anyways. If you want homeland security, that's it.

Note: This is probably what will have to be argued in court.
 
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JasonRox said:
There is absolutely no screening for going on a bus in Canada. There probably should be some on those that are above an hour or two.

My thoughts anyways. If you want homeland security, that's it.

It doesn't look good to me - sounds scary.

It's easier to have metal detectors at entrance doors but that I guess would cost lots of money.
 
A metal detector wouldn't pick up a ceramic chef's knife which are incredibly sharp.
 
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I doubt their lawyer thinks they can win over a jury. I suppose the idea is to convince Greyhound that it's cheaper to settle out of court than to fight it.
 
jimmysnyder said:
I doubt their lawyer thinks they can win over a jury. I suppose the idea is to convince Greyhound that it's cheaper to settle out of court than to fight it.

Probably. They probably know the actual suspect has no money to offer to pay for damages, so the lawyer is going for the company to make it worth his/her expenses. :rolleyes:
 
And the lawyer is doing it for the free publicity, this should get them a lot of new clients.
 
Evo said:
And the lawyer is doing it for the free publicity, this should get them a lot of new clients.

In Canada, it's either free or you pay a lot. Lawyers here can't contract for a percentage of winnings. Definitely a good thing!

It's most likely free in this case.
 
I hate america's court system. You can sue for anything. And I hate that expensive lawyers are better than cheap lawyers. It shouldn't be possible for one lawyer to be that much better than another. the law shouldn't be so malleable.
 
  • #10
I'd take the more optimistic approach and believe them that the suit is simply to kick start the system into instuting some form of security measures. Granted, there is only so much that can be done, but something should be implemented. The aviation world usually needs the same thing to happen. The family is only asking for $150k. That's nothing.
 
  • #11
IMO it would be more dangerous. Id be more concerned about getting stabbed waiting for a bus with no protection than getting stabbed on the bus. It is more so when you are on your own at a quiet bus stop you are more likely to get attacked. You have to think of the greater good.
 
  • #12
Can you sue a city for not protecting the public from being stabbed/mugged on a public sidewalk? There should be metal detectors on public sidewalks. Or random weapons searches then, right? Someday...
 
  • #13
JimmyJockstrap said:
IMO it would be more dangerous. Id be more concerned about getting stabbed waiting for a bus with no protection than getting stabbed on the bus. It is more so when you are on your own at a quiet bus stop you are more likely to get attacked. You have to think of the greater good.

I had to wait for bus at remote locations around midnight time (for couple of times) but I never thought of getting stabbed.

I think the best thing is to recognize psychological diseases before they do any social harm.

I'd take the more optimistic approach and believe them that the suit is simply to kick start the system into instuting some form of security measures. Granted, there is only so much that can be done, but something should be implemented. The aviation world usually needs the same thing to happen. The family is only asking for $150k. That's nothing.

K.J.Healey said:
There should be metal detectors on public sidewalks. Or random weapons searches then, right? Someday...

That's what I am afraid about. People think with weapons and modern technology they are safe from bad people (all terrorists and other BS).
 
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