FOLLOWUP: Hit-run killing of bicyclist Robb Mason still unsolved; friends launch community crowdfunding; memorial-ride reminder

Still no word of any arrest in the hit-run killing of 63-year-old Robb Mason, the West Seattle massage therapist hit while heading home to Magnolia on Friday evening, July 15th. This Friday (July 29th), the monthly Critical Mass bike ride will be in memory of Mr. Mason, leaving Westlake Park downtown around 7 pm and expecting to arrive at the crash site on SW Spokane, east of the low bridge, around 7:30 pm for a memorial, all welcome. Friends also have launched a crowdfunding account for Mr. Mason’s widow Claudia – donations are being accepted here. Police have not released any information aside from the initial description of the car as a white or silver sedan; anyone with information is asked to call the SPD Violent Crimes Tip Line at 206-233-5000. The incident number to refer to is 2022-183308.

anonyme July 27, 2022 (3:39 pm)

I would have thought that there were cameras all over that area. Apparently, that is not the case, which is very troubling. I hope this murderer is found and punished.

Chemist July 27, 2022 (5:17 pm)

I don’t think the cameras record or can be used outside very specific authorized uses.
- Also John July 27, 2022 (8:44 pm)
  
  I remember hearing the same over a decade ago. A women was killed in Pioneer Square. The story went that an intersection camera was pointing directly where the murder took place. However the City couldn’t legally release the camera video history, because the intent of the camera was for traffic only.
Kyle July 27, 2022 (8:26 pm)

Wondering the same thing. With the low bridge cameras there, how have they not at least gotten a license plate number or better description of the vehicle. Such a tragedy and to not have a suspect in jail is heartbreaking.
- WSB July 27, 2022 (8:46 pm)
  
  As noted in a couple other threads:
  State law prohibits use of images from enforcement cameras for anything but the specific violation they are authorized for.
  - bill July 27, 2022 (11:02 pm)
    
    This practically makes the legislators who restricted use of enforcement cameras accessories to murder. Anyone want to dig through the legislative history so those people can be named and receive their moment of infamy? If nothing else future politicians might think twice before enabling criminals to escape.
  - Confused July 28, 2022 (7:51 am)
    
    I guess I am confused. If this person crossed during “closed” hours (7:30 PM) then shouldn’t the image/footage be fair game?
    - WSB July 28, 2022 (11:59 am)
      
      The law is very clear. There’s no loophole for “if you’re breaking the rules we can use the image for anything.”

oerthehill July 27, 2022 (6:46 pm)

He sure looks familiar. I suppose because we live in a small town sort of place and he worked here.

Lisa July 27, 2022 (9:39 pm)

I thought the same thing. How do I know him??

Mehran July 27, 2022 (8:22 pm)

As a cyclist who consistenly has close run ins with cars, this hits close to home. RIP Robb – I know everyone in the cycling community knows your name and wants justice.

Libra July 27, 2022 (9:53 pm)

The law needs to be changed! A person is killed and the video from the camera can’t be used to find the person responsible!

Zipda July 27, 2022 (10:58 pm)

Cameras for tickets but no cameras for justice. Sad.

anonyme July 28, 2022 (6:05 am)

Or, cameras for tickets but not for murder. At the very least, the law should be expanded to other traffic violations, including hit and run and serious collisions.
they July 28, 2022 (6:34 am)

Well said…please print tee shirts…
V July 28, 2022 (10:45 pm)

I cannot believe I’m reading this! Who wrote these laws?!? It’s insane…I’ve been wondering if they found the driver and car yet since passing through the crime scene that night on a bus. I still feel sick to my stomach about it. Clearly the state needs to make some adjustments if a crime has been committed. What exactly is the language for this law that this traffic cam can only be used for X purpose? Supposedly there were witnesses so did no one get a plate number either? Justice for Robb!

Erin July 28, 2022 (10:31 am)

Robb Mason was my massage therapist and helped me get back to doing what I loved (hiking, soccer, cycling, and crossfit) after ACL reconstructive surgery.He was a wonderful person who was a Seattleite through and through. He rode his bike to West Seattle from Magnolia for work, talked often about his partner who worked at one of our prominent Seattle Bookstores, and was excited about some new appliances he bought.I’m having a bit of a hard time processing this, because it’s hard when such a great person is taken far too soon.

Steve McKenna July 28, 2022 (2:49 pm)

It’s a crying shame

West August 5, 2022 (10:22 pm)

Someone in a car tried to run me off the road and chased me trying to rob me / steal my bike near white center/Westwood. I have had other issues with cars in the past on main roads yet this was on a 15-20 mph residential street and the guy was literally trying to run me over while speeding and followed me again threatening me and trying to rob me… it’s insane it concerns me for public safety and the bicycle riders. It’s sad that these thing even happen or people even get hit by cars.. it’s scary the streets of Seattle are not safe enough for bicycles especially west Seattle and white center.. crazy drivers speeding, bike theft, intoxicated drivers, and lawlessness that puts people in jeopardizing situations

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