To the editor:
As many in the town, I reviewed your recent report regarding Oscar’s upcoming trial. I mourn for Savanah, her family and her friends. Likewise, I mourn for James, his family and his friends.
While I can appreciate the nature of journalism and storytelling, it’s difficult for me to understand the imperative inclusion of James’ full report appended to this article. Oscar’s mental health was certainly impacted by the accident resulting in James’ death, but the accidents are ultimately independent of one another. The graphic images and details included are ones that would likely otherwise have gone unseen by the many young adults and families who are now reliving the worst night of their lives.
I write to you as a sister who has seen her brother impacted by his best friend’s death. Equally as such, I write to you as a member of the community who was heart broken by Savanah’s. The inclusion of James’ accident not only disrupts the grieving, but offers a tone which says that Savanah’s death is only to be remembered in tandem with James’, which is a harmful and invalidating message to Savanah and those still here with us that will miss her everyday.
I don’t have a tangible ask, but rather a consideration moving forward; please let James rest, and those who remember him live.
Rory Schauder
New York City
