Arrr, North Carolina city be denyin' a permit for th' Christmas parade, 'cos o' a wee lass's unfortunate demise last year!
2023-09-15
Avast ye, me hearties! Raleigh be denyin' a Christmas parade permit, forsooth! A sad tale it be, indeed. Last year, a wee lass named Hailey Brooks, aged a mere 11, met her untimely end when a float-towin' truck did strike her down. A dark cloud hangin' over the festivities, says I!
Officials in North Carolina have denied a permit for the Raleigh Christmas Parade following a tragic incident that occurred during last year's event. A truck towing a float struck and killed an 11-year-old girl, Hailey Brooks. In response, the city of Raleigh made the decision to prioritize the safety of parade participants and spectators, as well as show respect for Hailey Brooks' family and friends. The Greater Raleigh Merchants Association, which organizes the parade, had requested a permit, but it was denied due to an abundance of caution.The driver of the truck, Landen Glass, was initially charged with misdemeanor death by motor vehicle, careless and reckless driving, improper equipment, unsafe movement, and carrying a firearm in a parade. The charges were later elevated to felony involuntary manslaughter by a grand jury. The Brooks family was not consulted regarding the decision to deny the permit, and their attorney, Jason Miller, expressed their disappointment. Miller stated that the family believes basic safety measures could have been implemented instead of canceling the parade entirely.
The merchants association, represented by Executive Director Jennifer Martin, also expressed sadness over the decision. The Raleigh Christmas Parade has been a tradition for 78 years, bringing joy to the community and allowing families to create lasting memories. Martin emphasized that the association is ready and willing to continue this tradition as soon as the city allows it to return.
While the decision to cancel the parade was made with good intentions, it has sparked disappointment among both the Brooks family and the merchants association. It remains to be seen whether alternative safety measures can be implemented to ensure the future of this beloved Raleigh tradition.