Sports Radio Service


		Slaying leaves questions of SBC security By Scary Barry Rodriguez September 20, 2004
	Timothy Griffith celebrates his birthday in August with his girlfriend, Lezley Van Dalsem. Photo courtesy of Mary Beth Eadie
	On Sept. 17, Timothy Griffith, a 21-year-old Giants fan from Redwood City, was stabbed to death on Terry Francois Boulevard, close to fan and employee parking lots at SBC Park. His death was the result of a random act of violence by unknown assailants that police now suspect are gang members. This incident brings into question the safety of fans and Giants employees in the parking lots and nearby areas, especially at night. I have attended many night games at SBC and noted the lack of lighting in the parking lots nearby and on Terry Francois Boulevard. Police presence is restricted to the nearby crosswalk areas and the immediate areas around the ballpark. The area that SBC Park is located in (King St. between 2nd and 3rd) appears to be a magnet for all manner of street people and homeless persons. After night games, persons going to the parking areas south of the park walk across a dark bridge towards dimly lit parking areas. Last Friday's homicide proved the "safety in numbers" approach to safety and security after ballgames is not adequate. To my knowledge, Giants management has not released a statement on the tragic incident. Just what responsibility does the San Francisco Giants and the City of San Francisco have for the safety and security of fans attending ballgames at SBC Park? Even in parking lots that are part of stadium complexes, such as Network Associates in Oakland or the Stadium at Candlestick Point, I have witnessed fistfights and rampant alcohol abuse. The death of Timothy Griffith last Friday should send a message that there needs to be a review of what measures are being used to ensure the safety and security of fans attending all types of events at these ballpark facilities. It was a business masterstroke building SBC Park near the scenic waters of San Francisco Bay and close to the downtown area. Perhaps more thought could have gone into the security arrangements needed in the areas where fans and employees park. Whatever the improvements made now, it's too late for Timothy Griffith and his grieving family.