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Tragic incident at the Peace Arch border crossing
On May 2, 2019, a devastating vehicle collision at the Peace Arch border crossing claimed the life of Pastor Tom Cheung. The incident occurred when Gurbinder Singh, a Washington state resident, crashed into Cheung’s minivan while waiting in line, resulting in a fiery explosion that took the pastor’s life.
The aftermath of this tragedy has left his family grappling with grief and anger, especially after recent court developments.
Dismissal of charges sparks outrage
In a shocking turn of events, charges against Singh for dangerous driving causing death were dismissed by provincial court Judge Daniel Weatherly.
The judge ruled that Singh’s mental state was profoundly impaired at the time of the crash, citing a mental health crisis he experienced just a day prior. This decision has left the Cheung family in disbelief. Athens Cheung, the victim’s widow, expressed her anguish, stating, “He killed my husband.
It’s so hurt to my family.” The family has yet to receive a written copy of the ruling, further complicating their understanding of the situation.
Concerns about justice and mental health implications
The dismissal of charges raises significant concerns about the implications for justice in similar cases.
Solomon Cheung, the victim’s son, voiced his fears that this ruling could set a dangerous precedent, especially in light of recent violent incidents linked to mental health issues. He questioned the logic behind allowing Singh to walk free, asking, “If he truly had mental health issues, shouldn’t he be admitted to some psychiatric ward?” The family feels that the justice system has failed them, as they have not received any form of apology from Singh, who reportedly never acknowledged them in court.
The long road to justice
The Cheung family has endured a lengthy and exhausting legal process, waiting years for a resolution. Athens lamented, “Even the coroner report, we waited two years. The trial, six years. We waited so long. It’s not fair to my family.” The BC Prosecution Service confirmed that they would not challenge the ruling, stating that the necessary factors for an appeal were not met, though they did not elaborate on what those factors were.
This lack of clarity has only added to the family’s frustration and sense of injustice.
