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The family of Tom Cheung, a British Columbia pastor killed in a 2019 crash, urges lawmakers to address legal gaps after the driver was deemed not criminally responsible due to mental illness. Cheung's widow and sons expressed their despair over the court's decision and the lack of communication from authorities regarding the case. They seek transparency and hope to prevent others from experiencing similar trauma.
The family of Tom Cheung, a British Columbia pastor who died in a 2019 crash near the Peace Arch border, is pushing for reform in the legal system after the driver, Gurbinder Singh, was found not criminally responsible due to mental illness. The court took nearly six years to reach a decision, which left the family feeling frustrated and abandoned. At a memorial event in Richmond, Cheung’s widow and two sons articulated their grief and disillusionment with the judicial process, questioning the prosecutors' decision not to appeal. They lamented the lack of transparency, noting they have not received key documents, including the RCMP report and court transcripts. The family's experience underscores the need for clearer communication and support for victims' families in similar cases. They hope their advocacy will lead to legislative changes to ensure that mental health issues are adequately addressed in legal contexts. Cheung’s widow expressed feelings of despair, emphasizing the emotional toll of the ruling. Their story resonates with broader societal discussions about mental health awareness and accountability in the justice system.