Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 5:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I didn't quite understand how the DA stated he had "no reason to run", as in he had a valid drivers license and insurance ect... not breaking any other laws by driving as he was... but in the same breath bring up the alligations of alcohol.

Posted by AnaCapa on July 27, 2007 at 6:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The killer's lawyer Ron Bamieh asked the court to reduce the bail because his client had surrendered to police out of "concern for the victim" and "feelings of remorse."

Well, if his client was really remorseful he'd have pled guilty to save the family the pain of a trial and save the tax payers the money.
Ca'mon! There were witnesses! Drunk or not this guy ran a red light, hit a person, then was too cowardly to stop and render aid. The public needs to be protected from peple like Painter, I'm glad he'll be staying in jail.

Posted by res1q7et on July 27, 2007 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Sitting in jail, awaiting the trial, is the least he could do to honor the woman he killed, to respect her grieving family, and to demonstrate true remorse. It would be time well spent to rethink his choices and direction in life.

Posted by Equitable_Enforcer on July 27, 2007 at 8:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The deputy DA said that Mr. Painter had a valid driver's license. Am curious about insurance. He had three times previously been cited for failure to show proof of financial responsibility.

Fumbling with a cell phone? C'mon, Ron.

My sympathy for Mr. Painter grows weaker as facts surface ... primarily because of his "not guilty" plea. Yes, his lawyer told him to so plea ... but the lawyer works for him and he could have plead guilty ... to save tax payers money and to save the Dunn family further grief.

A few of us had opined earlier as to reasons why Mr. Painter might have fled the scene. It seems we were right. Fear is not a valid excuse. He deliberately fled.

Not the least of distractions was his blasting stereo which could have been cause for a cite in itself.

Once again, perpetuation of the lawyer species ... the only ones who win no matter who else loses.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 9:11 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Randy is sorry for what he did!! How many times do we need to say this. He is sorry for what he did, he is sorry that he hit he, he feels bad for what he did. Get over it people!!

Posted by uknow1 on July 27, 2007 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The details have not come out in this story. Was she riding acorss the street at about 9:p.m.? Illegal and dangerous. Did he run a red light that just changed from yellow to red and there she was? Or, did he just blow the red light completely? And , afterall, he's 20 years old? Like big kid 20 years old. I could see myself panicking at 20 years old maybe. I like to think not yet I might have if I was involved in such a tragedy. But to say that he is totally at fault would be to assume much. The victim obviously was highly thought-of as 800 people came to her memorial...wow! Hope I get 50. When is the last time any dignitary had so many mourners at thier service in Ventura?

Posted by lescornejo on July 27, 2007 at 10:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

We live in a world in which our youth are allowed adult privileges but don't understand the possibility or enormity of the consequences for mistakes they make. This is a situation where families on both sides are devastated and will never be the same. Randy will likely live with self hate, depression and the rage of the community. If convicted (seems probable) somehow the system needs to find a way to make Randy a contributing member to our community after paying the debt assigned through our justice system.

Posted by angrygirl8284 on July 27, 2007 at 10:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)

starlightnights, telling people to get over it is the rudest thing I have EVER heard. Someone I cared about is gone. I will NOT EVER get over that.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Life goes on!! Man would it matter if it was someone else? Randy was scared! He left. I did the same the when I did a hit and run. I left. I know you cared about her. Im sorry shes gone. Im sure she will be missed. Randy is a mess. He is in jail. Hes not getting out. Thats wht you guys wanted right? But moaning and groaning about Beth is gone isnt going to bring her back. Saying Randall needs to stay in jail isnt going to bring her back. Im just saying Beth is gone get over it and move on with life. Randy is sorry for what he did.

Posted by Equitable_Enforcer on July 27, 2007 at 10:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Contrary to what some are saying, the facts are coming out. Mr. Bamieh said that Mr. Painter was "...fumbling with his cell phone." That alone would show inattention. I am also of the opinion that there was a connection to the girl in the car behind Mr. Painter, who is a criminal because she didn't stop, and with the music blaring from Mr. Painter's stereo to the inattention that led to the accident. Yes, it was an accident, but Mr. Painter is not taking responsibility.

As to Mr. Painter feeling remorse, most any human would. However, I feel strongly that our legal system, the one that increasingly says individuals aren't responsible for their actions, is leading Mr. Painter to not be a real man ... to admit his guilt and to take whatever punishment can be plea bargained.

Posted by rebel123 on July 27, 2007 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)

starlightnights: Life goes on? Well, certainly not for Beth, now does it. Randy was scared? BOO FREAKING HOO. You have a hit and run under you belt so you obviously think that's the common response. News bulletin for you: responsible people don't react that way, no matter how scared they are. After all, what you were afraid of were the consequences of your actions, right? Do you think Beth's family should just get over it because the guy said he's sorry? He fled the scene, he was apparently drinking, according to his friends, and he drove away and left a mortally wounded woman lying in the street. Get over it? Life goes on? Quit moaning and groaning about Beth's life being snuffed out by this idiot because it won't bring her back? I think not. What you are hearing on this board is the righteous and expected moral outrage of a community that cared deeply for this woman and is angry that your buddy Randall killed her, apparently while driving not just recklessly but under the influence, left the scene and now wants a pass because he turned himself in. AND...he pleaded not guilty. This guy really needs to sack up and take responsibility for what he did.

Posted by rebel123 on July 27, 2007 at 11:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

unknow1: Beth was riding her bike home from work. She was considered developmentally disabled and did not have a driver's license. She was riding legally. If Randall caught the end of the yellow, he was still in the wrong and obviously driving too fast to stop....another violation. He admitted he'd been drinking....another violation....he was "fiddling with his cell phone"....plain stupid. It is offensive that you attempt to put any blame for this on Beth.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Beth was riding her bike in the intersection! She shouldnt have been doing that. Randys brakes locked up. ANd yes its time to move on with life. Shes not coming back. Shes gone. People on here needs to learn how to forgive. Do you know Randy? No I dont think so. I know him. I know what hes like. Hes a caring person. He wouldnt hurt a fly. He made a mistake(I will keep saying that until you guys understand that) He his a mess right now. He is sorry for what he did. Now he will be haunted for the fact that he killed someone for the rest of his life....he cant move on with his life because of this. You guys can move on with your life because you know that one day you will be with her. One of these days you wont cry cuz you know that she is in a better place. Randy will be crying for the rest of his life. Think about it!

Posted by res1q7et on July 27, 2007 at 11:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Starlight...

Your admission of having fled the scene of a hit-and-run really shows the true nature of your character. So, according to your logic, it's excusable to flee a scene because you are young and scared? Why didn't you just get over your ignorance and fear and be accountable for your actions at the accident scene? You think that saying "sorry" is enough? "Sorry" doesn't take away pain. Time and healing help though. Obviously, you haven't felt much in the way of consequences for your actions, nor are you willing to allow people to walk through their grief at their own pace. You need to get a life, and a HEART!!! I understand that you are standing up for your hurting friend, but in doing it in such an inconsiderate manner is unexcusable.

Posted by imbetnonit on July 27, 2007 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Lescornejo has it right. While everyone else bickers back and forth, Beth has probably already forgiven Randall. She, better than all of us, understands people aren't perfect. But they still deserve our understanding and compassion despite their imperfections.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have a heart! In fact all my friends say that Im the nicest person that they have met. I just cant stand you guys ripping a friend of mine into pieces. And since you guys dont know him then you guys should keep your mouths shut. You were there you dont know what happend. I wasnt there I dont know what happen but I have to go with what Im hearing. Randy is hurting. What he did was wrong. He knows it. But would you guys be saying what you are saying if it was someone else? I dont think so. Beth is gone move on.

Posted by mmccarthy on July 27, 2007 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)

MESSAGE FROM MODERATOR: PLEASE REFRAIN FROM MAKING PERSONAL ATTACKS AGAINST OTHER POSTERS WHEN COMMENTING TO THIS STORY. THANK YOU.

Posted by brian_williams on July 27, 2007 at 11:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

He killed the girl then fled. What if she had just been severely injured and in need of urgent medical attention and he was the only person who knew of the accident, and had a cell phone to call for help?

What message would lowering his bail send to other reckless drivers. Run over someone, flee - then realize after you sober up that you are going to get caught anyway and turn your self in - so that makes it all "OK" so you should go free?

Randy is not the victim - he's the perpetrator.

Sorry - he needs to face the result of his actions. Loss of his job and incarceration are the least of his worries if he truly as a conscience.

Posted by shaver_one on July 27, 2007 at 11:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What I don't understand is the legal issue.
His bail was not reduced, because there is a claim he was drinking before getting behind the wheel. But, the DA will not charge him with DUI.
Why not?
If he was drinking beer (and that led to the accident)...that's DUI.
If he was not impaired from that beer (three hours before the hit & run)...then do not use alcohol as a reason for keeping his bail at $100K.
You can't have it both ways. I don't understand. It makes no sense to me.

Posted by happylovejoy on July 27, 2007 at 12:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh no, I just heard about this. I visit that Von's often and this lady was always very nice. I am so sad that I won't see her again. I also used to work with Randy and feel so sad for him too whether he was in the wrong or not. This situation is very sad.

By the way rebel123, his pleading "Not Guilty" is to the charges as they are. He obviously knows he is guilty of killing her. He turned himself in. How come you can't be a little bit forgiving? You can forgive and still expect him to take responsiblity for his actions.

Posted by Just_an_ordinary_person on July 27, 2007 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The only way to discribe this accident is, "tragic". Tragic for Beth's family and friends, but also tragic for Randall and his family and friends. We all want to believe that in any circumstance we would react in the appropriate manner, unfortunately not everyone does. But making a poor choice doesn't make a person evil, Randall made a few poor choices which led to this tragic accident. The Dunn family needs everyone's love, prayers, and support. Randall's family also needs the same. Imagine how you would feel if your son or daughter called with the horrific news that Randall had to deliver. In no way do I want to validate or make excuses for Randall's actions and discount the Dunn's loss, words aren't enough. But before judging Randall, take a moment to contemplate how you, your family, or your friends would react. Can you honestly say they would do the right thing? Or would you only hope they would? And would you love them any less if they made the wrong choice? Forgiveness is up to the Dunn's; judgement is up to our court system. And Randall has to live with this for the rest of his life. And for the record, I know Randall personally, not well, but enough to know that he will carry the thought, memory and loss with him for the rest of his life. Who hasn't made a poor choice at least once in their lives, unfortunately this was a big one. My thoughts and prayers goes out to the Dunn family and the Painter family.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Okay i dont think he deserves to have his bail lowered. Whether he was drinking or not he killed an innocent woman and left her to die on the street. I understand that yes he turned himself in but did he do it because he had to sober up? Since he left the scene we will never know. They cant charge hium with dui unless they tested him.
Star the comments on people need to forgive are harsh. He took a persons life. Maybe people would be more forgiving if he stayed and tried to get her medical attention

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 1:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To those who say this guy deserves to do a lot of time... why then have other people in the same situation (first time offense, young scared hit and run, and a death as the result) only gotten maybe a year jail time in the high end and a hand full of years of probation? The law should be fair to all, and completely objective. No decision made only because of who the victim was. And I'm sure everyone who knew and loved these victims were enraged at the result from all their pain and anger over a loved one. Why should it make any difference how many loved ones the victim left to feel this pain and anger?

So tell me, why should the life of one victim be worth more than another? Who should make that kind of decision? I would hope that no human being, especially one as tainted as everyone here, gets to make the decision.

Posted by Cordi on July 27, 2007 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I can understand how you all feel about what happened. I lost a friend to a hit and run almost 2 years ago. Randy is my brother. Im not making any excuses on what he has done,but he is truly sorry for his actions. None of us know what truely happened. The only ones that do are Randy and Beth. Let me ask this. If it were you in Randys shoes and there was someone trying to defend you would you like it if there was people ripping you apart on here?

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Also, for those of you who seem to think he's a threat to society, how do you come to that conclution. Tell me, how is he going to harm anyone else? He didn't go out and hunt down someone to hit. He's not a mass murderer, or hell bent on the distruction of humanity. So tell me, how is he a threat to you?

Keep in mind I'm expecting something more than "he killed someone" because what took her life was an ACCIDENT, not malice intentions.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 1:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well first off I have had someone that I Ive known was hit and killed and the person took off. I forgave her because I know that being mad at her for the rest of my life will not make my friend come back. If it was Randy yes I would be hurt but I would get over it. LIfe goes on. I have been praying for the Dunn family and for the Painter family. The good book does say to fogive and forget..something you all should do. Would you rather Randy take back his sorry? He didnt do it on purpose. Its not like hes a serial killer and hes going around killing people on purpose. He turned himself in. Did you not want him to turn himself in? Did you want him to flee?

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

res1q7et: "It would be time well spent to rethink his choices and direction in life." So tell me, aside from that one bad choice to flee the scene what other choices does he need to rethink? Do you know what direction his life was headed before this? No you don't. Now what he's got to do is find a way to get things back on track when his debt is paid to society. Back towards the good full life he was just beginning. That's a punishment the law could never infict upon him, but still it's nothing comepared to the fact he will have to live with this on his conscience for the rest of his life.

jpb-- his job was brought up because the victim's family can seek restitution. And they can't receive that if he has no job.

Sorry for the double posting, trying to take the time to read everyone's opinions here.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I understand being scared but he is an adult and knows right from wrong. I truly understand that he may be very sorry but he left the scene. I dont thin k that everyone is ripping Randy apart I think they are truly upset about what happened. Honestly I dont think people would be so upset if he stayed and offered Beth some help. I think everone agrees that he deserves some jail time and how about talking to local high schools about this tragedy.

Posted by Cordi on July 27, 2007 at 1:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As I and others that know him see it he is being ripped apart. Yes he does need to be punished but thats not for us to decide that is for the courts to decide.

Posted by Ventuckey on July 27, 2007 at 1:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am scared of the fact that some of you live in my community.

Posted by TBSBooBoo on July 27, 2007 at 1:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I grew up with Randy, and I can honestly say that he is one of the sweetest guys i have ever known. Other friends have said that he wouldn't hurt a fly. While i do feel bad for the family in this tragic accident, and do not make any excuses for what happened, i think it is rude and harsh to judge someones Character by what the papers report. Do any of you know him personally as i do? Then do not judge on what you do not know. It is unfair and cruel. He did not go out that night and think, hey i will go end someones life. Thats why they call these things accidents, because they happen unintentionally. Randy is a great guy, and this could have happened to any of you, although you might not have fled the scene as he did. I feel very sorry for Beth's family. But I also feel bad for Randy.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ventuckey, there's more of us than you think. Ms Dunn wasn't the only person out there who made a lot of good friends.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 1:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh and by the way if the dots just aren't connecting for you: That means its not just a few psychos supporting him-- it's an entire section of the community, wholey good and upstanding people.

Posted by brian_williams on July 27, 2007 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The family and friends of Beth (and society for that matter) can "Forgive" Randy for is actions.

But that does not free him of his legal obligation.

That's called a "Pardon". One is personal the other is legal.

BTW - has he asked Beth's family for forgiveness, face to face? or did his lawyer tell him that would legally be a strategic mistake?

Starlightnights and TBSBooBoo, if you are his friends - give him this message while he sits in jail so he can ponder it. Actually - give him all the responses.

Posted by junian on July 27, 2007 at 1:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I knew Beth very well. I know that she was a stickler when it came to the law. She never failed to ride without a helmet and followed all the rules of the road. I cannot say what happened on that fateful night nor will I attempt to speculate. I do know that Mr. Painter did himself no favours by fleeing from the scene. My first reaction on hearing about the hit and run was wondering how anyone could be so despicable as to leave the scene after hitting someone. As more details are coming to light it is quite apparent that Mr. Painter did a lot more than just hit and run. Mr. Painter turning himself in does not make everything all right. People say it was the honourable thing to do. I fail to see anything honourable about that. Whatever the reasons he had for turning himself in, "Honor" does not remotely come close to it. It is said that he was just a kid and got scared. He was old enough, and responsible enough, to obtain a license and operate a vehicle which means that he is old enough and responsible enough to accept the consequences of his actions while driving that vehicle. I was in an accident several years ago and I stopped immediately to see if the person was okay. Fortunately I did not kill anyone. So I know what I would have done because I did it. Mr. Painter had no idea what had happened to Miss Dunn at the time. He could not have had any idea if she was seriously injured or not. His only thought was to get away. I know some of you are friends of Mr. Painter and I commend your loyalty to him. He may be a good and nice guy to all of his friends. However that does not change what he did. He probably is genuinely sorry for what happened. He may not be a bad person but that night he behaved very badly and therefore should be punished to the full extent of the law. Absolutely no two ways about it.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 1:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

but you guys are ripping him apart. You are judging him. You dont know Randy like we do so please dont talk about him unless you know him like we do.

Posted by Equitable_Enforcer on July 27, 2007 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"The only ones that do (know what happened) are Randy and Beth." Not true. There is at least one very credible witness who has come forward --- the one who called 911 --- and there is the girl in the car behind Mr. Painter who left the scene of the accident. That person is a cowardly scum bag a la Lohan/Spears who deserves jail time.

If all is as it appears, Mr. Painter would do us all a favor by demonstrating that he is not a coward as indicated by his fleeing the scene of the accident while Beth lay mortally injured on the pavement. Additional facts continue to surface, none of which are in his favor. It is a given that he is guilty of felony hit and run. Since there is no equivalent of the felony murder rule in a case like this, he faces only misdemeanor manslaughter charges.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 2:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

junian i agree with you completely.

Posted by Ventuckey on July 27, 2007 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Junian is right on the point. Very well put, I agree with everything you have to say.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 2:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Its not like he did this on purpose. Get it through your thick heads! He didnt wake up and say Im going to kill someone today! He cant say sorry to the family since his family doesnt want anything to do with him. Would you rather he didnt turn himself in? Would you rather he kept on running? Would that make a difference? He turned himself in cuz he thought that would be the best thing to do. But if you havent been reading the papers then go back an reread what the lawyers are saying...Randall is sorry. What more can he do. Besides sit there in jail. Either way he sits in jail sooner or later he will get out. Then what?

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 2:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Julian-- the action was honorable because he chose to face the situation head on instead of continuing to hide and run from what had happened. We're not trying to say that his choice to run in the first place was in any way honorable.

My comment about who the victim is determining the sentence is about the people affected by this big loss are pushing for him to be punished far more than other people in his shoes. I ask why should he not get the same punishment?

To me it seemed the DA pulled the alligations of alcohol out because they felt they were lossing the argument to have the bail kept the same-- which by the judges statement they were.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

as for offering his condolences and apologies for what happened directly to the family. We have no idea if his lawyer had an opinion about it, or if that's somehting considered acceptable to face them while these procedings are up in the air.

And what about how her parents feel right now. Would they be able to handle a face to face meeting with him? Even to give his greivences to them it would be a very tough step for them to take. They need time to pull through the initial pain of loss before healing can begin.

Posted by junian on July 27, 2007 at 2:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Starlightnights

Please try to understand some logic here. Not one person has said that Mr. Painter did kill Beth intentionally. As a matter of fact my belief is to the contrary as I do not think people go out with the intention of killing someone in their vehicle. However there is no denying that he intentionally left the scene of the accident. If he had stayed at the scene and faced the consequences then there may not have been so much anger in the community, although there would have probably still been some because of the drink factor that appears to have risen to the surface.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

star you are getting angry at everyone because they have opinions. You have yours and we have ours. If you didnt know him i wonder what you would be saying. I wonder if you would feel the same way if your friend was killed. accident or not he left her on the street and took off. No one said that he ran her down on purpose. The facts are that he did and did not offer to help her.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 2:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Junian, my apologies, i misspelled your name. And misread it for that matter.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 2:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Starlightnights is angry because your opinions seems to be based solely upon the articles, which are clearly written in a way that tries to down grade the kind of person he is and his character.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 2:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm just trying to get things straight her, but i thought she was riding on the left hand crosswalk. If so that's not with the flow of traffic, that's against it. But i'm not an avid rider so I'm not up with the laws. The only law I really know about is one that was instated a few years ago I think about lights being required for riding after dark.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 2:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

opinions are based on his actions. he left the scene. he could have tried to help her. being scared and young is not an excuse

Posted by junian on July 27, 2007 at 2:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Time To Think

I am at a loss to undestand how you can think that he did the "Honourable" thing by turning himself in. Maybe a glance in the dictionary may help define what "Honourable" is. He turned himself in because of 2 possibilities.
1. It was what he SHOULD have done anyway.
2. He was going to get caught sooner or later because of all the attention and the witnesses descriptions.
I cannot say which of those two applies because I do not know him. But "Honourable"? sorry that word is too high a praise to apply to Mr. Painter turning himself in.

Posted by junian on July 27, 2007 at 2:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

By the way no problems on the mispelling or misread. I actually missed your comment the first time because you mispelled my name.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

turning himself in was the correct thing to do. being honorable has nothing to do with it

Posted by TBSBooBoo on July 27, 2007 at 2:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have actually had a friend killed in a hit and run accident. It was another friend of mine that did it. I accepted that it was unintentional and that my friend by no means meant for this to happen. I think that you should all remember that 20 yrs old may be old enough to obtain a license, but it is not old enough to be unafraid of everything. Hhow many of you can honestly say you fear nothing? Being afraid is human. And while i do not think he made the best decision in leaving the scene i can understand why he was afraid of the consequences. Going to jail for life because of an accident shouldn't happen. He does not deserve that. People who go out and intentionally kill or rape people deserve that. Not good people that made a mistake.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was raised and tought through my training that the right thing to do is the honorable thing. those two words are interchangable for me.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 2:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I see this way....so he does his time in jail and he gets out ealy. Then what? Are you guys going to be pissed about that? What if he was to get out today?

Posted by Ventuckey on July 27, 2007 at 2:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Recommended reading:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manslaug...

http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/vctop/appn...

Posted by junian on July 27, 2007 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Being in an accident is always a very scary thing. Age is not a factor when it comes to fear. I myself was very scared when I was in an accident. I understand fear. However I cannot endorse leaving the scene of a crime because of fear of going to jail for life. Let me state something again. Mr. Painter had no idea what happened to Miss Dunn. He did not even know if she was hurt at all. If the accident was simply an accident then there were no consequences for Mr. Painter to fear. It is not a crime to "accidently " hit someone in a vehicle. It is a crime to drink and drive, or drive under the influence, or go through a red light, or drive carelessly or leave the scene of an accident you are involved in. Now it is my opinion that Mr. Painter left the scene because there was obviously more to it than just an accident. Again that is entirely my opinion but I will be very surprised if I am proved wrong.

Posted by rebel123 on July 27, 2007 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To all those who think Randall is such a great guy, wouldn't hurt anyone, sweetest person you ever met, feels horrible about this, is ruined (as well he should be)....et al: he may well be all of those things. His character comes into serious doubt because HE LEFT THE SCENE OF A DEADLY ACCIDENT THAT HE CAUSED! That is not suggestive of a person with a strong moral imperative, regardless of how scared he may have been. You should be supporting your friend by making sure he knows that you are there for him, not by trying to make what he did less than what it is or to tell those of us who mourn Beth's death to 'get over it' and to 'just move on'. His age, his fear, his feelings about what he did and all the rest of the excuses for his actions do not mitigate his actions. And to those who suggest that Beth was in any manner responsible, shame on you. She was riding her bicycle lawfully. Randall blew through the intersection, ran her down and left the scene as though she was nothing more than a stray dog he'd hit. What reaction do you expect from people? Surely you don't think most will feel sorry for this guy. Hit and run is a heinous, cowardly act of a person with no moral compass. That is very likely what compelled the judge not to lower his bail. If he fled the scene, what's to keep him from fleeing the country? He has not exactly proven himself to be trustworthy here.

Posted by junian on July 27, 2007 at 3:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Starlights
I feel compelled to comment on your apparent deeply engrained anger. I am sure that as long as Mr. Painter is tried accordingly through a court of law and serves whatever sentence is mandated by law, then the community can accept that he will have "done his time" and move on from there. We all know that it will not bring Beth back. However that is why we have laws in the first place. To abide by, and receive appropriate punishment for non compliance.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 3:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To say that because of his wrong decision to flee he has no moral compass is extremely offensive. Good people make bad decisions everyday, that's becaus ebeing good doesn't mean you have to be perfect. It's like trying to say Ms Dunn's mental capacity had a strong bearing in what happened-- since no one here has stooped so low as to imply that about Ms Dunn why is it you have to say such a thing about Mr Painter?

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Now you guys are saying that Randy is a bad guy. Hes not a bad guy. Its a bad thing what he did, but that does not make him a bad guy. I know him. And for all of you who dont know Randy they way we do dont judge him.

Posted by rebel123 on July 27, 2007 at 3:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There are bad decisions and there are heinous acts. He knew he hit someone. He left the scene. He did not turn himself in for many hours, well after he knew he'd killed a person. That does not speak to me of a person with a strong moral compass. Suggesting that my saying this is comparable to someone linking Beth's mental capacity to some culpability in her death is a bizarre and totally ridiculous comparison. We often don't know what we're truly made of until we are put in dire situations that test our true moral imperative to the max. Randall failed that test. Being sorry doesn't change a damn thing.

Posted by rebel123 on July 27, 2007 at 3:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To suggest that people should not judge your friend's actions is unrealistic. I am stunned that you are not wondering why his response to running down a woman was to worry about his own ass and leave the scene.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 3:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Actually he turned himself in directly after he found out he'd killed someone.

And you've no idea what he was worried about, I have a feeling worry about anything (himself, her or whatever) did not ever enter his mind. It was blind fear that drove him from the scene.

I fully understand arnger towards what happened, but i feel the anger is being misplaced. i feel you are argry for the life he took, as you have every right to be, espeicially if Ms Dunn was someone very close to you. It looks like people are instead taking the fact that he ran and imposing their full anger there (granted anger at this decision is understandable as well-- but if you all truly felt for Ms Dunn as you say you do then the bulk of your anger is simply over her death). The only crime here that will carry a substancial punishment is the hit and run charge-- pushing your anger here leads to pushing for a harsher and unfair punishment.

those that know and love Mr Painter are just trying to do all they can to ensure he gets fair treatment for what he has done.

Posted by lescornejo on July 27, 2007 at 3:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

A good kid would have been scared out of his wits, and then slapped with the realization that admitting to this act might ruin the lives of his parents and others close to him. Yes, the right thing to do was stop and help. Parents, go home and tell your children the lessons you are learning here. I bet this kid worried more about admitting this to his family than what his punishment might be. Thankfully, he finally did the right thing by turning himself in so that the Dunn family can have some kind of closure, and justice can be served.

Posted by rebel123 on July 27, 2007 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

He will have his day in court and the jury will not be pulled from the posters on this board. So his fair treatment is not in question here. I simply can't understand how you can say his blind fear was not based on a self serving motive. What was he afraid of? I keep hearing this fear thing....ok, fine, he was afraid. Of what? Being held responsible for what he did? Having to face the fact of what he did? Having to submit to a sobriety test? Having his life turned upside down? What?? Fear is not an excuse. He made a cowardly decision. Does it make him a bad friend? No. Does it mean he is without redemption? No. It means he chose the coward's way and now his friends are running to his defense when the community shows their contempt for his choice. Our anger is directed exactly where it should be. We've all likely had situations while driving that could easily have ended tragically...I know I have thanked God for a near miss where I pulled out in front of a guy on a motorcycle. I believe most would understand how horrible accidents can occur. It is his callous disregard for Beth that he showed by fleeing the scene that angers us. Many people face great fear for their own well being and do not cut and run. We are ripped apart by Beth's death. This guy brought a whole new element to her tragic end when he decided to leave her there, dying in the road and thought ultimately of himself first.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 4:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

People run alot. No one gets upset with them. What if Beth ran over Randy. Would you guys say anything about Beth? I dont think you guys would since his was disabled. He didnt know about Beths death until Sunday. Thats why he turned himself in. Yes I think Randy should of turned himself in a lot sooner. I was scared when I did a hit and run. Not the fact that I did. I thought I didnt do any damage to the other car. I didnt know how much damage I did until hours later. Im sure Randy was the same way.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 4:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Your welcome to show contempt for his chioce to run, but if you are going to do that in turn you should show at least the slightest bit of apreciation for his choice to turn himself and and take the necessary steps to make things are right as they can possibly be. And no one's asking you to hold this man a saint for any of this. Just give credit where credit is due.

By the way you don't need a subject to have fear. Just ask anyone with an anxiety disorder.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 4:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I hope for the sake of your own psyche no one here has an accident they rashly decide to run from. That no one here has to deal with such a thing on their conscience, especially after all that is being said here.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think that Randys friends need to be reminded that the victim here is Beth Dunn. She was the one hit by the truck, she was the one who lay in the street as Randy took off. It is Beth who lost her life.
Randy is the one who was not paying attention, hit an innocent person. It is Randy who took off leaving her to die. It is Randy who waited till the next afternoon to turn himself in.
The community would be a lot more accepting that this was a terrible accident if he stopped offered to help Beth. We would be understanding if he didn't wait over 12 hours to turn himself in.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 4:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Randy knew he hit someone. That is why he took off through a parking lot. Star it is disgusting that you think people are mean simply because Beth was disabled. Her disability has nothing to do with the fact that we are angry. We are upset because he hit someone and didnt care enough to stop and offer help. There is no way that he didnt know he hit someone. Are you saying that he only turned himself in because she died? That is terrible. It think that you should stop talking now because you are only making matters worse.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have not forgotten who the victim is here. I'm just trying to make sure the community doesn make even more "victims" out of this. We've had quite enough with the loss of such a great person.

How about we stop alltogether calling people this or that for arguing in favor of one side of mentality or then other and simply try to debate our opinions so that a common understanding may be found here.

Or we could stop arguing all together and let this matter be handled by the legal system with no outside influence from a public biased one way or the other.

Posted by lil_leopard_grl_69 on July 27, 2007 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

This is to EVERYONE on here. I truly hope that the Dunn family does not have to read this. You all should be a ashamed of yourselves. Fighting and arguing over this. If the Dunn family reads this, do you think seeing all of this is going to help them move on. I don't think so. I am a friend of cathy's, Beth's sister, I work with cathy. This whole family is forgiving and caring and loving. I think the last thing on their mind is praying for a harsh punishment. And for Randall's friend Starlightnights, you never get over the death of someone. I think thats very heartless of you to expect people to get over it or move on. In time people's pain will go away but you never get over the death of someone. No matter how they died. Anyone that has lost someone in their life know's that you never "get over it" You simply continue to live your life the best you can, and remember all the good things about that person. As I know the Dunn family is doing. I think that this Accident is one that is tragic for EVERYONE. Including Randall. I would have to say that if this was truly an accident all the evidence will prove it. Accidents do happen. There really is no need at all to sit here and talk bad about anyone invloved in this horrible accident. Why can we just let the courts take care of it. it's not like what all of you are saying is going to make a difference in his case. I'm sure that beth is at peace now and as well as her family. But how can they continue to be at peace with this if they have to read all of this??? I don't understand. I'm truly sorry to all invloved in this.

Posted by starlightnights on July 27, 2007 at 4:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

well you guys cant make me shut up. I have been prayering for both families. Im just saying that you guys should just leave Randy alone. meaning stop with he is so bad. He knows what he did. He knows it was wrong. I think you guys should just shut up. And just leave Randy alone.

Posted by lil_leopard_grl_69 on July 27, 2007 at 5 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think you all should shut up.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 27, 2007 at 5:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I wouldn't accuse the Dunn family of "praying for a harsh punishment" being that Ms Beth Dunn was such a wonderful person and so many people can attest to what a good practicing christian family they are. Given all the wonderful things said about them i would think they are the kind of people above all who have a capacity for forgiveness. And I would not expect to see steps towards forgiveness until the family has had time to cope with the tremendous loss they have suffered.
I think what everyone needs here is time for all to deal with the loss of Ms Dunn. I feel that until that time people won't be ready for understanding or forgiveness for any matter involved here.

Posted by CALA on July 27, 2007 at 5:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with lil_leopord_grl_69 on that last comment...it is getting way too negative and personal. There are so many of you any here with no decency and no respect for ANYONE envolved.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 5:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

this is an open forum. I know that I have lots of respect for the Dunn family.

Posted by CALA on July 27, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sorry, nikkigill - my comment wasn't meant for everyone just those who are make personal attacks on others making comments. Just try to have a little respect for each other at least for Ms Dunn, I do believe she would never behave the way many here are.

Posted by busymommy on July 27, 2007 at 7:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks CALA.

Posted by DeadInside on July 27, 2007 at 10:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

All of you look ive known Randy since i was little an hes a good guy i remember when me an my sis ran away he piggy backed me all thru town untill late at night an i had to sneak back into my house so he deserves compassion an your support if you dont know him dont judge him i know hes very very ubset about what happened an i know hell never forget it hell hold with him for the rest of his life an that is punishment in itself Because starlight nights is right an so is my sis cordi SO All of you hes not a killer hes a protector an hes scared.im just lettin u all know i had to creat an account to post this
~sincerely Cheyenne ~

Posted by imbetnonit on July 27, 2007 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you can feel comfortable with him "watching your back" as a "friend", good for you. Don't be surprised when you look back and............you're alone. That's what happened to Beth. That's cold to think of yourself first in a situation like that.

Posted by an_angel_watching_over_u on July 28, 2007 at 12:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

To Everyone That Post Comments Here!!!

I agree with (lil_leopard_grl_69) that you all should be ashamed of yourselvers.. You guys are turning into BARBARICS. Leave Mr.Painter alone, and Leave the Dunn's Family ALONE TOO!! Everyone is intitled to their opinion, but it's getting way to agressive for anyone to comment
here..STARLIGHTNIGHT, I know that you are close to Randy and know him well.. I do too, but you are OUT OF LINE HERE.. Stop and Think about what you are saying about Randy.. This is a very serious crime, and the things you saying here, could hurt him in the long run. Instead of helping Randy, you are cripling him more by arguing with everyone.. Everyone here has the right to say what they feel about Ms.Dunn, but I what so ever dis-agree when a few of you keep being redun-dunt about " BUT HE FLED THE SCENE ". who are you to say such a thing anyway? We all know what he did was wrong and he is paying for it already, it may not at the extent yet, but it is not over... Stop living in the "IF" LAND! this angries me of how a community can act like, this person we are trying to percecute is an ANIMAL.. I AM ASHAMED FOR BEING PART OF THIS SO CALLED " COMMUNITY ".
To the Dunn's family, I do really hope that this doesn't get to you all.. I am still so sorry for your lost.. God Bless You and I Hope That You Find Peace Amongst All of This

Posted by TimeToThink on July 28, 2007 at 7:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)

How can you call someone with such remorse and greif over what pain he has caused so many people an animal?

I'm ashamed to know people like you call yourselves human, yet lack the ability to be humane. We all agree what he did was wrong, and now he's trying to make up for it and you're kicking dirt in his face. You're no better than his is now, you're showing as much lack of caring and goodness as he did when he made the rash desicion to flee..

Posted by an_angel_watching_over_u on July 28, 2007 at 7:45 a.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by chasingcheryl on July 28, 2007 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

an_angel_watching and starlightnights are obviously young, immature women, this fact is obvious from their posts.
I am the mother of 3 boys who have not always acted responsibly and have done some stupid things. Thankfully nothing that has gotten anyone killed, but I can empathize with the Painter family as my oldest son in particular, was short sighted and reckless enough that something like this could have happened. But for the grace of God...

I am a realist, and based on all the information that has come out so far, while Mr. Painter may have not been legally drunk, the fact that he was drinking must have entered into his thought process when he decided to flee the scene. He waited long enough to turn himself in so that no objective evidence could be obtained as to his blood alcohol level, which is why he will probably never be charged with DUI. Even if you remove alcohol from the equation, I think his actions could still be considered involuntary manslaughter, which occurs where there is no intention to kill or cause serious injury but death is due to recklessness or criminal negligence.

Driving through a red light and hitting someone in a crosswalk who has the green light, is certainly reckless in most people's book. In general, people drive too fast and carelessly around this city. I was almost broadsided the other day when making a left from Main Street to the 126 east bound on-ramp because a young woman in her early 20's was apparently in a hurry and found her cell phone conversation more important than paying attention to her surroundings and the fact that her traffic light was red. She was going down Main street in the opposite direction towards the mall. It wasn't a matter of it being a VERY yellow light, her light was red as she approached the intersection, but it never registered with her and she whizzed right through it. If not for good brakes and quick reaction time, she would have broadsided me going about 45mph.

I think cell phones in anyone's hands behind the wheel, are dangerous, and when the driver is a young person who's brain has not fully developed in all areas, combined with the impulsiveness and inattention you often see in young people, they can be deadly.

When we are driving, ALL OF US, it should be our main focus, perferable our sole focus, so that otherwise good human beings don't find themselves committing terrible acts, or dead because of someone else's failure to be responsible and care about the people around him.

Posted by angrygirl8284 on July 28, 2007 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

an_angel_watching_over_u on, It's quite funny to me that you singled me out. You obviously didnt read at all what I put because what you wrote does not pertain to me. The person that killed my friend is spending 15-20 years behind bars. The person the killed my friend was drunk and high. And it wasnt a hit and run. So I am not upset at all with the outcome of that trial. I was not the one calling Mr Painter names or making personal attacks AT ALL. And I wasnt comparing the two cases. All I said was sometimes the District Attorney asks the family and friends of the deceased to show up at the court so the judge can see first hand the impact the actions of the defendant has on the community. Next time you should read through a little better.

Posted by sog55 on July 28, 2007 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

surprising that the moderator has let this go on this long. I've been censored for much less! hey coffeecup your right... since when does how much a person is liked factor into sentencing. But this is ventura and cases like this tend to be more sensationalized. Have any of you been to jail? Can You imagine finding yourself in jail facing charges like these because in the blink of an eye you were fumbling with your phone and something like this happened? you people have no idea what you would do in this guys situation. My deep sympathies to both families.

Posted by NothingButTheTruth on July 28, 2007 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What troubles me is that Painter had a day and a half to chit-chat with his family/friends about his collision. I do not believe he sat ALONE for one and one-half days watching re-runs of Laverne & Shirley. Would you or I be able to do so after striking and killing a bicyclist? So again I ask: "Why didn't his family/friends IMMEDIATELY call VPD instead of playing the role of cover-up?

And, why should people be more sympathetic for a 20 year old hit-run driver than a 50 year old hit-run driver. If we hit and run we deserve the scourge we bring upon ourselves regardless of age or lack of criminal history.

Posted by TimeToThink on July 28, 2007 at 3:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

sog55-- I'm glad to see more and more people standing up for a neutral take on this issue, with enough understanding not to jump to conclusions. Now everything is up to the courts to decide, not a mob angry about this or that.

And for those of you who say people are being disrespectful to the victims family here, it looks like everyone posting has pretty much offered condolences and support for the loss with the articles about Ms Dunn and remembering the great life she led-- in one way or another.
This article here though is not about Ms Dunn; it is about how the case is proceeding; so I dont see how anything here is out of line.

Posted by junian on July 28, 2007 at 3:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There really is a lot of strong feeling on both sides. The facts have spoken for themselves so far. The law will take care of whatever it needs to do. We all have opinions of what happened and what we think happened. The facts are simply that Mr. Painter did kill someone, although not intentionally, maybe negligently. He also did flee the scene. The first fact is something that the court will have to determine which laws were broken and what crime was committed. The second fact is fairly obvious to everyone and I am sure the courts will act accordingly. I have my own opinions of what consequences Mr. Painter should face.
I am aghast at some of the comments from his friends and completely at a loss to understand what they are trying to accomplish here.
I am also struggling to connect with the people who say "you should be ashamed of yourselves". I do believe that some of the posts are too personal and vengeful. However some of us have no reason to "be ashamed of ourselves". I certainly am not. As nikkigill stated, this is an open forum. I have enormous respect for the Dunn family and for the deceased. This is not about respect. This is about right and wrong.

Posted by junian on July 28, 2007 at 3:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Time to Think

You and I actually agree on something there.

Posted by elainec7791 on July 28, 2007 at 4:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i want to set the record straight about something here.i have read all of your comments and feel i need to say something.i am a close relitive of randy and want to say none of his family knew anything of the horrible accident.we did not hear of it until evryone else did! (a time to think) please dont make assumptions!i will keep saying it we are here to support randy and we send our deepest condolences to the dunn family.please dont think we have not had our own share of tragidies in our family.we to have had a loved one hit and killed mind you a child! also my sister was murdered also!so do not think we do not understand the pain the dunn family is going through.

Posted by junian on July 28, 2007 at 4:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think that is a fair enough comment. Attacks on the family because people believe they should have turned him in are accusations without foundation or merit. Does anyone actually know that he even told his family or friends? There are a lot of unanswered questions in this story and until the facts come out I think it is inappropriate to make assumptions.

Posted by Faithman54 on July 28, 2007 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Oh, now that makes it all better. He turned himself in AFTER he found out that he killed someone!!!! So in other words, if Beth had of just been injured, crippled or paralyzed, THEN, he would have not turned himself in. Oh now I understand. I am totally sure that your friend RP is a nice guy, and the like, but his judgement that night defineately missed the mark. And what the heck is this honourable thing business about turning himself in? His honourable deed should have been stopping to render first aid, call 911, or something, to the person that he hit!!!!!!!

Posted by DeadInside on July 28, 2007 at 7:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I just wish every one would stop hes very scared an put yourself in his shoes what would you do if you were scared to death you would run away wouldnt you hes no animal all that happened was fate especialy for beth just leave him alone it doesnt do anygood for him

Posted by junian on July 28, 2007 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Uh - oh I foresee a pretty heavy barrage coming in response to that post. I would simply like to request that Mr. Painter sympathisers please refrain from pleading people to leave him alone as it does not do him any good. It is quite obvious that Mr. Painter has very few people out there who care whether it does him any good or not, since his behaviour showed very little compassion for the life of another. I think all Mr. Painters sympathisers need only look at the facts, which speak far more volumes then any of us ever could. None of those who are apparently against Mr. Painters behaviour are exhibiting anything other than outrage at the henious actions of an individual. Please remember that only Mr. Painter made the decisions that he did that fateful night. Nobody else made them for him.

Posted by NothingButTheTruth on July 28, 2007 at 11:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hey Deadinside, I bet Beth Dunn was VERY scared when she heard the tires screeching just before his big, jacked-up F-150 struck her! To you and close "relitive" elainec7791, I ask: How do you know he didn't talk to other family members? Do YOU know he didn't talk with friends? Do you REALLY think he sat by himself for a day and a half w/o sharing what he'd done? Many of us just doubt it. Many of us think he waited a day and a half to allow himself time to sober up. Funny how his "family" and friends don't address those questions... don't worry, VPD won't arrest you for harboring a fugitive if you were involved in the cover-up. Mr. Painter and the excuses brought forth by his family (fear) and attorney (cell phone) just don't engender any sympathy for him. Purely and simply, you just don't like the public sharing their thoughts.

Posted by Faithman54 on July 29, 2007 at 4:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

FATE for Beth??? You have got to be kidding, right? And why do you (deadinside) and you (starlighnights) do not seem to get it? It has nothing to do with your friend being a nice guy and knowing him since a child, etc. I don't think it is even about running the red light that people are outraged about! It is about AFTER running the light and then taking off, not stopping to see if there was something he could have done. Don't you two get it? It was the running off part that have so many outraged!!! It has nothing to do with how nice he is. I read an article yesterday about a 19-year-old that was text messaging and blew a stop sign and struck a man that was on his bicycle. What did he do? He pulled over, jumped out of his truck and ran to help. He called 911, and STAYED at the scene. The man did pass away, but the 19-year-old driver did not RUN!! You get it now?

Posted by jsscglr on July 29, 2007 at 9:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Did you hear?!!! Randall Painer was relased..take a look

http://157.145.215.163/inmateinquiry/...

Posted by AnnaWhaat on July 29, 2007 at 10:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

uknow1,I wonder about that also.
rebel123,Just FYI, just because he pleaded not guilty doesn't mean anything........ any public defender or attorney is going to tell him to do so. He is probably following what they are telling him to do.
imbetnonit , I think your correct in that....
ok wayyyyyyyyy to many comments gonna have to finish this later! Prayers to both families !!!!

Posted by happylovejoy on July 29, 2007 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Ugh!!! Can't some of you just stop judging a book by its cover for one second? People are very complex. I am sure that Randall had many reasons for leaving the scene of the accident and whether they are acceptable to you or not they obviously made sense to him in that second. It is disturbing to me that he would choose to run because I wonder who failed to teach him that he should face what he did rather than fear the consequences so much that he would run. This isn't intended to be a hit on his upbringing but honestly how many of you have had the discussion with your licensed children about what they should do in the event that they run over a person on a bicycle. He is 20 years old (still a kid) so he is incapable of thinking like many of you 30 somethings on here. He just hasn't had the life experience.

I worked with this kid for a few months a while back and I just want it to be known that I thought he had a very kind soul and was a considerate person. Although based on what he told me about his personal life, I am also not suprised that he ran and that he also feels very guilty.

Posted by NothingButTheTruth on July 29, 2007 at 1:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)

happylovejoy, who are YOU to tell people they shouldn't excercise their freedom of speech? One look at the public record of Painter's driving record: {OPEN CASES}https://public.courts.ventura.org/pub...
shows potential reason for his fleeing the scene where he KILLED someone: two speeding incidents and two uninsured driver incidents; $759, $1133, $187 in fines; two of the incidents are Failure To Appear convictions... hey, happylovejoy... this guys has a history of ignoring responsibility, BEFORE AND AFTER collisions.
Why happylovejoy should we give a 20 year old any more slack than a 50 year old for hit & run? What do your excuses offer the 16-20 year olds who DO comply with the hit-run laws by stopping at their collision scenes. Yeah, you have a right to be a liberal. But believe me, his lawyers will think of every imaginable excuse for his actions.
I'd still like to know who all he talked to in that day and a half... and what THEIR excuses are for not calling VPD to turn him in...

Posted by happylovejoy on July 29, 2007 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I'm so sad for all involved and I am sad for people who are using this event to spew hate, twist the truth and attack.

I never said not to say what you wanted. My hope was that people would think that there may just be a little more to consider than just the facts related to this incident. That is why I said that people are complex, just as complex as you are NothingButTheTruth.

Posted by DeadInside on July 29, 2007 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I stick by his side because i know for sure he is scared to death an i knwo if he told his parents they would have turned him in an he was under the influence of alcohol mabey that was a factor in him not telling anyone so u all shut up unless u have proof

Posted by junian on July 29, 2007 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)

happylovejoy

I am sorry but I must question your statement about judging a book by its cover. Yes, people are judging him by his cover (actions on that night). However, when you open Mr. Painters cover to look deeper inside the book it appears that there are many more pages in the book that taints his reputation. I agree wholeheartedy about" not judging a book by its cover". Unfortunately the cover of this particular book is a small hint to what is contained within.

Posted by Andrew_Smolik on July 29, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If Beth Dunn was indeed a stickler for bicycling as a driver of a vehicle — as indicated in the comments by people who knew her — yet was struck by Randall Painter's truck in the pedestrian crosswalk — as reported in the article — then it could have very well been a reasonable attempted evasive swerve maneuver that she took toward the crosswalk, arcing away from the truck speeding toward her, for the reason why she might have been struck there.

I would just wonder how many red-light or stop-sign blowers who end-up causing crashes had already had a chronic bad habit of such blowing behavior in the first place before their first resulting crash. Some motorists seem to be outright proud of their red-light or stop-sign blowing behaviors — especially in front of bicyclists or pedestrians — which is what makes it so irritating when they do finally crash. In numerous occasions, I would be bicycling (equipped with battery-powered FIAMM “Freeway Blaster” aftermarket-vehicular dual horns on loaded bicycle) on a through road approaching a green light or no sign-signal at a side street. I would notice a motorist coming perpendicularly from the right on the side street with apparently “one foot on the accelerator and the other on the brake” approaching the red light or stop sign, so I would make a few quick, sharp beeps in succession as a warning. After I arc around the vehicle's nose sticking-out into the intersection and clear the intersection, the motorist turns right and follows / passes me over a period of several seconds in a slow, stalking-like manner while yapping some fascist “get-out-of-the-road”-type comment and/or beeping back at me. In many cases, the through road has multiple vehicular lanes and bicycle lane per direction, and I am moved left out of the bicycle lane and into the vehicular lane only upon approaching and clearing the intersection — specifically in order to avoid these types of idiot motorists who slam on their brakes at red lights and stop signs with nose already sticking well into the intersection (i.e., into the perpendicular bike lane, shoulder, or crosswalk) if and when they do stop.

Posted by Faithman54 on July 29, 2007 at 6:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well, read NothingButTheTruth's post above and go to the website provided. This guy was an accident waiting to happen, unfortunately poor Beth was in his path. It could have very well been any of us, anyone else that might have been crossing the street, or it could have even been you Deadinside! Still yet, it could have been one of your loved ones Deadinside, that he hit. If that was the case, would you still be saying "he or she is dead, get over it"? This guy is not Mr. Innocent as you seem to portray. Look at his record!!!!!

Posted by DeadInside on July 29, 2007 at 9:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)

you guys are asses he was under the influence of alcohol

Posted by NothingButTheTruth on July 29, 2007 at 10:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So Cheyenne/Deadinside (Painter's friend) says he "was under the influence of alcohol". It's nice to see one of Painter's friends admit he drove UI. To date, not ONE of his family/friend group wants to admit they were with him during the day and one-half he hid from VPD. And don't tell me he sat alone... you'll ring up a "no sale" on that one... to a lot of people.

Posted by imbetnonit on July 29, 2007 at 10:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

??? are you saying that as an excuse? ("under the influence of alcohol") ???

Posted by imbetnonit on July 29, 2007 at 10:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Cheyenne, are you under the influence of alcohol right now?

Posted by vcca on July 30, 2007 at 12:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So this guy's main defender and good friend on here also did a hit and run and thinks everyone should just "get over it" and "move on", oh and "shut up". I think his defenders are the ones that should do their friend a favor and move on. You aren't helping him, people are probably thinking worse of him because of some of the comments made by people who know him.

Posted by dr_l_ron_bumquist on July 30, 2007 at 1:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am sorry, but I have to chime in here. I normally "lurk" here, but this has really gotten to me.

For "starlightnights:"

You have stated (copy/paste):

"Was she riding acorss the street at about 9:p.m.? Illegal and dangerous."

"The only law I really know about is one that was instated a few years ago I think about lights being required for riding after dark." (when referencing bikes)

"Did he run a red light that just changed from yellow to red and there she was? Or, did he just blow the red light completely? And , afterall, he's 20 years old? Like big kid 20 years old."

"Life goes on!! Man would it matter if it was someone else?"

"Im just saying Beth is gone get over it and move on with life."

"I think you guys should just shut up. And just leave Randy alone."

"So tell me, how is he a threat to you?"

"I have not forgotten who the victim is here. I'm just trying to make sure the community doesn make even more "victims"."

It looks like you and your collaborators are trying to make Painter the victim.

It looks like you are trying to place blame on the victim. That is inexcusable.

By looking at his priors (thanks dclarkesrf), he is not a very good driver. He may be a pleasant person, but that does not make him a good driver.

I keep hearing the word "accident." Back in my Ventura High Driver's Education class, they discouraged that word. Anybody involved in even a minor traffic accident knows that "fault" is assigned (in percentages) to each driver. The word "collision" was the word that I remembered in VHS. This was a collision between a truck and a bicycle.

As for the "how he is a threat to you" comment: he was. His prior driving record only shows the times he got caught (even though he is "just 20"). I drive, I have a wife and kids, and I hope he is not allowed back on our shared roads for quite a while. This is not a personal comment. He could be as nice as spring rain, but again, that does not make him a good driver. Of course, I fear for my loved ones and myself.

But don't worry, it looks like he bonded out. So he is free to "work" and people can "get over it" until the trial.

For "Deadinside:"

"you guys are asses he was under the influence of alcohol"

How do you know this? He is 20 years old. No alcohol was suppose to be in his system while driving and if so, that is an automatic suspension of his privilege to drive an automobile. Why would you admit that?

So Painters friends/family should do him a favor and just "let the courts" decide. I bet he will get about a year in state prison being this is a felony (six months with good time). Besides, he is free. He bonded out. So this Ventura County Star story is moot.

So go ahead, flame away!

Dr. L. Ron Bumquist

Posted by emgarber on July 30, 2007 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

what the ......... starlight ........... move on MOVE ON MOVE ON - is this all you can say - how do you think the family feels - it wasn't time for her to go but she is with God dancing and wishing everyone would understand how God would handle it - Randy needs to ask God for forgiveness and as for the family healing needs to happen - Beth you are loved and missed

Posted by brian_williams on July 30, 2007 at 2:06 p.m.

(This thread was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by imbetnonit on July 30, 2007 at 4:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

After looking at his "priors", it appears that Randall doesn't have auto insurance either. Last I heard that was against the law. I agree with the last two comments, with friends like these two, who needs enemies.

Posted by junian on July 30, 2007 at 5:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It looks like we people who judged the book by its cover appear to be good judges. The book has many similar pages to the cover. The deeper in to the book we go the murkier it is.
I am completely speechless at the people who are trying to defend Mr. Painter. Apart from being a good person to you what possible attributes do you find becoming in this individual. He has treated the law with total scorn in regards to his driving history. As I have said before the facts of his record speak volumes.

Posted by KMK on July 31, 2007 at 7:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Starlightnights,

I was there and saw the WHOLE thing from beginning to end! When Randall hit Beth he made absolutely NO attempt to stop - he didn't even slow down - and neither did the friends that were following Randall in the car behind him. The only time any of them slowed down was to go around her body in the street.

As for Beth's fault in this... SHE HAS NONE! She was walking her bike across the street because SHE had a green light to do so. It is not illegal to ride your bike at night. Even if Randall's light was green (which it wasn't), pedestrians have the right of way, so he is still at fault.

I can imagine he was truly scared after feeling a human body hit against the metal of that big truck he was driving, but fleeing the scene only shows that he was more concerned for his own well being at the time than that of the person he left to die in the street. Maybe you don't know your friend as well as you would like to think.

You've made it obvious that he has at least one "friend" that can only think in terms of how this affects YOU, instead of owning the responsibility of the situation and how it affects countless others. Part of that responsibility is being sorry, saying so, meaning it and trying to make things right - not pouring salt in the wounds of those that knew and loved Beth.

I commend you for standing up for your friend, but you are not helping his case with your insensitive comments that blame the victim. I bet if Randall saw the things you are saying he would tell you to stop because you are only hurting his case in the court of public opinion.

Judging by the tenacity of your replies on this board and defense of your friend, I can just bet that you would be the LAST person in the world to just "Move on", "Forgive and Forget", or just chalk up the whole thing as nothing more that a scared kid that panicked. If it was your relative that was left to die in the road due to another person's carelessness I bet you'd be out for blood, and there would be no excuse good enough to help you forgive. You don't even have the decency to allow people to have their own feelings about this. You've admitted that you weren't there - well then, this isn't your story to tell. If you really want to help Randall, then just be there for him when he needs a friend. Your responses on this board don't make people feel sorry for Randall, it only shows that he surrounds himself with people that are incapable of showing empathy for others while they DEMAND it for themselves. You are being absolutely callous in the statements you are making about the victim. Just stop already with the "It's not Randall's fault because he's my friend" campaign. It's not working!!!

Beth was a nice lady, you would have liked her, and if you had ever met her you wouldn't think she was so easy to "Get Over".

Just hope for the best possible outcome for EVERYONE involved.

Posted by KMK on July 31, 2007 at 9:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Correction:

You cannot cross against a red light as I stated in my last post. I was thinking one thing and typing another.

I was just so furious to read the posts implicating that Beth was somehow at fault - My fingers were flying.

See Starlightnights?... You make a mistake, you own it, and then you try to do better the next time. You should give it a try because it's the only way you'll ever take the lesson from your mistakes. If you don't, you're only doomed to repeat them.

Posted by wordwaymike on August 1, 2007 at 7:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hit and run deserves a high bail. I'm fine with that.

Let's talk about another likely "Hit and run" that the Star has failed to become indignant about.

The fatal crushing of Cindy Connolly on the beach by Oxnard P.d. Officers