Thread by @OtherWillJames

We are past the point at which news orgs in every state should consider formalizing "pool" systems for contacting the families of victims and perparators when there's a massacre.

Let's minimize the trauma caused by reporting on these tragedies.

1/

One of the worst work experiences of my life was being part of a swarm of journalists descending on Newtown in the hours and days after the Sandy Hook massacre.

Reporters for hundreds of news orgs were knocking on doors, trying for the same thing: humanizing the victims.

2/

Families shut down, understandably, because they were shocked and grieving, and because they were swarmed.

What if just one (local?) reporter knocked, and could say: "I'm here on behalf of the news media. I'm the only reporter who's going to be contacting you about this."

3/

I think, for one, families would be more likely to share their stories. We'd be sending a message that we, as an industry, care about their wellbeing. We'd do away with the circus atmosphere of post-tragedy reporting, which frankly is not conducive to getting people to talk.

4/

Thus, audiences would be better served.

And, most importantly, we'd minimize harm and avoid once again becoming part of the tragedy that befalls a community after something like this.

5/End

Addendum 1: This would of course require coordinating with national news orgs, and perhaps giving national media outlets point people in every state who will be reaching out to family members.

Addendum 2: This should maybe extend to friends/neighbors as well.