In the wake of last week's tragic accident, shock and grief have overwhelmed the entire TCAT (Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit) organization. As the police investigation proceeds, each succeeding revelation brings more pain and sadness.

"Our hearts go out to Michelle Evans' family and friends. TCAT chairman Hal Craft and I have sent a letter to Ms. Evans' parents, trying to put into words the grief and sorrow we feel over this tragedy," said TCAT general manager Rod Ghearing.

Ghearing added, "In light of the fact that Timothy Stranger had alcohol in his system, TCAT terminated him yesterday."

Perhaps hardest hit within the TCAT organization are the drivers. Many report feeling as if their professionalism is being questioned. Between that feeling and the shared grief, many have found it difficult to get behind the wheel each day, Ghearing said.

"We don't want our passengers to be uneasy," said TCAT driver and UAW Local 2300 zone representative Brian Goodell. "We take the trust that the public places in us every day very seriously."

Many of the drivers have taken advantage of the employee assistance programs that are available to them. "It's hard to cope with the fact that someone who has been such a leader and a good friend to his colleagues is in this situation," Goodell said. "We particularly feel sorry for Tim's two young children. This in no way reduces the sorrow we feel over the death of Michelle Evans."

Statements of sympathy and support for the TCAT drivers have been offered by UAW Local 2300, the Ithaca City School District transportation department and the TCAT board of directors. These groups have all expressed concern and appreciation for the burden being shouldered by these careful and caring drivers.