Kansas City area bicyclists,

The trial of the driver who killed Larry & Sierra Gaunt is set to
start today, July 14th, in Independence.

It will be at the Independence courthouse, Div 2, which is on the
second floor of the courthouse. The Judge is Michael Manners.

The first day will likely be only jury selection. If that gets done
early they might do opening arguments Monday as well. The rest of
the trial will start at 9am on Tuesday.

Brad sent me an email this morning that the local TV stations and the
KC Star have requested that cameras be allowed in the courtroom and
the judge as agreed to their request. So keep an eye on the Star and
the TV news stations for updates as the trial proceeds.

The Gaunt family sent out the information below. Those who would
like to support the Gaunts are welcome to attend the trial or as much
of it as you can.

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The trial for the deaths of Larry and Sierra Gaunt is scheduled for
July 14, 2008, at the Jackson County Courthouse Annex in
Independence, MO. William K. Johnson is charged with involuntary
manslaughter for hitting Larry and Sierra with his truck while they
training for the MS 150 Bicycle Tour, August 6, 2007, on Raytown
Road.

Since Aug. 6, 2007, our family has faced many challenges in dealing
with our loss. The trial, when completed, will end one of the most
difficult series of events we've endured. We will be relieved to
have an end to the criminal part of this ordeal and pray for justice
in the senseless loss of two precious people. Hopefully, this trial
will bring closure for our family and justice for this horrible loss.

As we met the challenges of our loss we were overwhelmed by the
outpouring of compassion and support from the community, in
particular, the cycling community, Pleasant Lea Middle School, and
Tall Oaks Christian Camp. This support has assisted us through many
difficult days. We are grateful for the many dedications and honors
presented in the memory of our loved ones. And, we are no less
appreciative for every kind words and prayer of which there were so
very, very many. It is the grace of God that sustains us.


--------------

Some background info:

http://mobikefed.org/2007/09/motorist-who-killed-bicyclists-sierra.php



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The Missouri Bicycle Federation is a coalition of bicycling, walking,
running, and trails organizations representing over 15,000
Missourians and speaking for the 2 million Missourians who bicycle
regularly and the 5.8 million who walk.

The Missouri Bicycle Federation is working to realize its vision of
active transportation in Missouri by creating a world-class bicycle
and pedestrian network in Missouri, building a movement around
walking and bicycling, encouraging more walking and bicycling, and
increasing safety for all road users.

www.MoBikeFed.org/vision

====================================================
Dr. Brent Hugh, LCI #1335 Director@...
Executive Director --- Missouri Bicycle Federation
www.MoBikeFed.org 816-695-6736
====================================================