DA Files Misdemeanor Vehicular Manslaughter Charges In Joe Shami Case
From the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office:
Martinez, Calif. – The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has charged Lori Everett, 51, of Lafayette with a misdemeanor Vehicular Manslaughter in violation of Penal Code section 192(c)(2), for striking cyclist Joseph Shami with her vehicle in Lafayette on April 13, 2021, shortly before 7 AM.
Mr. Shami was an incredibly experienced cyclist who lawfully entered the roundabout at the interchange of Olympic Boulevard and Pleasant Hill Road. Despite Mr. Shami’s bright helmet and colorful clothing, the motorist failed to yield, and struck the victim cyclist who was in an established lane of travel.
Tragic roadway deaths like this are avoidable. To ensure the safety of our community, the Office of the District Attorney implores motorists to be active, attentive drivers and to be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists when sharing the roadways.
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I am glad somebody is being held accountable. He didn’t deserve to be hit by the motorist and die. So sad. You can go to http://www.findagrave.com, and there is a memorial for him.
Is there video evidence of the events? or eyewitness? It would be a difficult case without clear evidence of how they came together. I hope Mr. Shami gets some justice. Sad, sad outcome.
Rest in Power Joe. Let’s hope we can find some justice for you, too.
That roundabout is filled with entitled, speeding soccer moms, almost lost my life there myself.
While biking?
It would be good to know what happened finally.
One soccer mom in an ARMADA equals 2 Chernobyls.
Tragic roadway deaths like this are avoidable. And vehicles and cyclists are like oil and water – they just don’t mix. I’d find a safer place to ride, as far away from vehicles. How many tragic deaths does it take? I believe in sharing the road, but the Bay Area is overcrowded, and safely cycling with too many vehicles is a thing of the past.
Dale Zenor’s killer was beyond reckless and got only 60 days in jail after epic stalling tactics. I look forward to learning the facts of this case, but I doubt they will make much difference to the result.
Unfortunately, this was caused by sunlight in the driver’s eyes at the time of day. No speeding, no recklessness, just a horrible accident.