Portland Mayor Sam Adams just issued a statement about last night’s fatal collision on SW 3rd and Madison.
Adams’ office has posted the statement on his blog, under the headline: Statement from Mayor Sam Adams on Bicycle Accident at SW 3rd and Madison. Here it is:
Last night, a terrible tragedy occurred downtown: a bicyclist was struck by a motor vehicle and killed. My condolences go out to this young woman’s family and friends; I am deeply sorry for the anguish they are going through. This incident hit me particularly hard given my commitment as mayor to making our city’s streets safer for all users. While we’ve made great strides, losing even one life is too many. This incident is still under investigation and the Portland Police Bureau will work with the District Attorney’s Office to determine appropriate action.
The use of the “bicycle accident” in the headline is very unfortunate — especially coming from a Mayor that has such a deep knowledge of and sensitivity around bicycle issues. It’s common knowledge in transportation circles to avoid using that word and instead use the word “crash” or, the one I prefer, “collision”. “Accident” tends to make these tragedies seem completely unavoidable, when we all know there are things we can do to prevent them.
I appreciate Mayor Adams acknowledging this tragedy, but I hope he, or someone in his office, will edit that headline as soon as possible.
UPDATE, 7:57 pm : The headline has been edited to “bicycle crash.”
UPDATE, 9:22 pm: I have confirmed that Mayor Adams will attend the community gathering at SW 3rd and Madison planned for Kathryn Rickson on Friday at 5:30.