Fox News earlier today showed a man committing suicide following a
car chase on live TV. They were streaming footage live, and kept on the
suspect after he left his vehicle, quickly followed by his final
decision.
Reporting breaking news is an important function of any news
organization, from the Amarillo
Globe-News to Fox News Channel, and car
chases are among breaking news television stations often report live.
Sometimes, though, there are consequences for getting the information out instantly.
As the scene unfolded in the final minute, the FNC anchor made
several references to the unpredictability of the situation, but the
video didn't stop until the suspect had shot himself.
The anchor, after the incident, was seen pleading with his staff to
discontinue the feed, and he appeared to be watching a tape delay.
There was obviously no tape delay before the viewing audience saw it.
Carefully reporting breaking news, with some caution and, in this
case, a short delay in live footage and what is broadcast, is essential
to keep incidents such as this from happening.
Do you think Fox News should have exercised more caution during this
car chase to avoid broadcasting a live suicide on national TV?
