Jury failed in its duty

I have just finished reading the Feb. 9 article regarding Diana Shakhov and her involvement in the accident which killed Nicole Johnson. The jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict.

I was not on the jury and do not profess to know all the details of the trial. However, based on evidence that has been published in the paper, which goes (unquestioned) by both the defense and plaintiff, I am dumbfounded that the jury could not come to the unanimous conclusion that Ms. Shakhov was responsible for the death of Ms. Johnson.

Even if you removed the issue of Soma, the pain medication found in Ms. Shakhov’s system, there is other substantial evidence: traveling 15 to 22 mph over the speed limit, no evidence of skid marks, 10 witnesses saying Shakhov had been driving erratically for up to a mile prior to the accident.

In addition to all that, Shakhov hit Johnson’s car from behind. Isn’t the person who does the rear-ending the responsible party?

I think what really sent me over the edge in the article, however, was the statement made by Shakhov’s attorney, Howard Price. Referring to his client, Price said, “She was severely injured and she has to go through her life knowing a sweet, innocent girl died, although it wasn’t her fault.”

Wasn’t her fault? Are you kidding? Whose fault was it, Mr. Price? Johnson’s car didn’t just fly full force into that utility pole all by itself.

Dane Johnson, father of Nicole, said, “We don’t believe justice has been served her.” That is an understatement.

I hope there is a retrial and a new jury is able to reach the correct conclusion, that Ms. Shakhov is very much responsible for the death of Nicole Johnson and then justice will be served. Harmony Paticoff Oak Park