Over the weekend there was a fatal incident in our downtown. A drunken fight after the bars closed resulted in a stabbing that cost one person their life. 

Understandably when something like this happens the community as a whole is effected. Our fears are augmented and our pride is tarnished. My sympathies to the family and friends of this individual.

For the rest of us, perspective must be maintained. In a city of over 100,000 people stories such as this are inevitable yet they remain well below the national average in Barrie. 

The response by city officials and police services will be proactive to insure situations such as the one this past weekend become fewer if not obsolete in Barrie.  If you have some thoughts on what Barrie should be doing to keep its downtown safe you can share them on the Barrie Elections 2010 page on facebook. 

http://www.facebook.com/BarrieElections2010

As I read today's paper and its crime beat section the following stories, just by the fact they were considered news worthy, reminded me that on the whole Barrie remains a safe and sound place to call home.

Angry umbrella customer

A woman went to a south-end business to ask about getting an umbrella repaired. When she learned the company didn’t make that style of umbrella, she became irate and demanded police attend. Police told the woman over the phone that it was a customer service issue, but attended anyway. 
When officers arrived they again told the woman that it wasn’t a criminal matter.

Veggie thief

Two John Street residents got into a dispute Tuesday night after one asked his neighbour to stop stealing vegetables from his garden. Police were called, and cautioned both neighbours.

Internet stolen

A local resident called police to report that their Internet service usage had been maximized by an unauthorized user. Officers continue to investigate. Police remind residents that it is their responsibility to ensure the security of their routers.