By Canadian Press

No safety plan at Edmonton fundraiser where woman killed by Jeep: inquiry

Nov 17, 2016 | 2:15 PM

EDMONTON — The grieving parents of a woman killed at a charity fundraiser by a Jeep that rolled during a stunt want legislation requiring safety plans for such events in Alberta.

John and Mira Green made the submission to a fatality inquiry examining the May 2013 death of their daughter Melinda at an Edmonton shopping centre parking lot.

During the inquiry, witnesses testified that the Jeeps Go Topless show had no safety plan or event insurance and did not require a city permit because it was held on private property. 

“We would like to see enough change that safety becomes a priority rather than it is an inconvenience to have permitting or regulations,” Mira Green said outside court.

“Public safety (should) be the first in people’s minds when they plan these kinds of events.”

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Melinda Green, who was 20, was watching drivers take part in a stacking demonstration when she was struck by one of the Jeeps as it fell on its side.

The stacking manoeuvre involves a Jeep climbing up the front wheel of another to show off its suspension system.

In September, the man who drove the Jeep that hit and killed Green testified that the vehicle jumped forward when he turned the key in the ignition instead of rolling back.

One of the organizers of the show previously testified that they were careful to keep the crowd at a safe distance as the Jeeps got into position.

Spectators were allowed to approach once one Jeep was atop the other with the engine off and the emergency brake engaged.

David Aitken, manager of community standards for the city, testified it would be more effective if the provincial government brought in regulations rather than just Edmonton.

He said if the city brings in too many rules and regulations it would force people underground or to other municipalities.

A provincial approach would be best “so that all Albertans have a sense of security.”

City lawyer Michael Teeling said the danger posed by such events that involve vehicles and spectators could best be dealt with by the province making changes to the Traffic Safety Act.

John Green said outside court that Melinda was full of hope and joy when she died and had her whole future ahead of her.  

He said they don’t want other families to suffer the same anguish.

“As parents, living with the loss of a child — that is the hardest part.”

Provincial court Judge Jody Moher thanked the Greens for pushing for the fatality inquiry and said their efforts will make a difference.

Fatality inquiries investigate the circumstances of deaths and can make recommendations to avoid similar ones, but they do not lay blame. 

Moher will issue a report later.

John Cotter, The Canadian Press