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Tragic accident sparks outrage
In May 2019, a devastating accident claimed the life of Pastor Tom Cheung, a beloved figure in his community. The incident occurred when another vehicle collided with Cheung’s minivan while waiting in a border lineup.
The driver, Gurbinder Singh, 40, from Washington state, faced charges of dangerous driving causing death. However, in a controversial ruling, Judge Daniel Weatherly dismissed the charges, citing Singh’s impaired mental state at the time of the crash. This decision has ignited a firestorm of criticism from Cheung’s family and advocates for justice reform.
Family’s plea for accountability
Cheung’s widow, Athens Cheung, expressed her deep sorrow and frustration over the ruling, stating, “He killed my husband. It’s so hurt to my family.” The family believes that the justice system has failed them, highlighting the frequent changes in the handling of the case.
Solomon Cheung, Tom’s son, pointed out that the RCMP officer and prosecutor assigned to the case changed multiple times, which he feels indicates a lack of seriousness from the government regarding their loss. “In their eyes, we are the metaphorical can that is being kicked down the road,” he lamented.
Systemic issues in mental health cases
The Cheung family argues that the current Mental Health Act is inadequate in protecting victims and holding offenders accountable. Solomon Cheung criticized the act as a mere façade, stating, “It doesn’t help victims suffering from mental health issues.
It’s just the use of the shield for criminals.” This sentiment resonates with many who believe that the justice system often prioritizes the rights of offenders over the needs of victims and their families.
Advocating for change
In light of this tragedy, the Cheung family is calling for significant reforms to the justice system, particularly in how it handles cases involving mental health.
They emphasize the need for a more compassionate and effective approach that considers the impact on victims and their families. As the conversation around mental health and justice continues to evolve, the Cheung family’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for change.
