By now, most of you are aware of the events surrounding the death of our drummer, Ron Hoag, on November 28, 1998.  This was a very sad day for Sid Died For Squid members that knew him, past and present.
     There is much speculation (many rumours abound) regarding the events that took place before the time of his death.  I, first of all, should say that I wish the best to the police officer that sustained gunshot wounds in the incident.  Her injuries are difficult ones to have to deal with, and she was an unfortunate victim in a situation that we all wish didn't have to happen.  With that said, I just wanted to take a moment to urge you all not to judge Ron too harshly.  We hear about what has happened from the media and always assume the worst.  We don't know all the facts surrounding the investigation that was going on, nor do we know why Ron resorted to using a rifle to shoot (blindly) through his door, and then turn it on himself.  I feel it is a safe assumption that hitting the police officer was unintentional, having no reason to believe otherwise.  I realize that it doesn't make the action right, just that sometimes life takes unexpected turns.  I don't want to see the guestbook at this site being used as a forum to leave anonymous derogatory comments about Ron, as has already been done (the message was left anonymously, but can easily be traced to the following remote address:  204.244.177.71.  A remote address is left with every guestbook entry).  If you don't know the facts, keep your comments to yourself.  As Ron said in an e-mail he sent me on October 28, 1998, "All that glitters is not gold.........and not all that is spread around Kitimat is true."
     To me, and I'm sure to all who knew Ron well, he will be remembered as a good man, a good drummer, and most of all, a great friend.

© 1999  Assman

Last Modified January 16, 1999