That is the headline on the L.A. Times story today about the 29-year-old man who was convicted on 11 counts of first-degree murder for “triggering the deadliest Metrolink train crash in history.”

This blog is relevant to MMA because I use Metrolink to get to and from our office in Orange.

I’ve been traveling by train (and bike) for many years now, and I’ve gotten to know, superficially, many people on Metrolink. For example, Ed, the conductor on the train out of LA, looks out for us cyclists. My friend from Palmdale, who rides his bike everywhere and has for years, is a good guy. Bob, the mechanical engineer from Chatsworth, is in a good mood every single day. His laugh echoes thru the train cars, so you always know when he’s there. Dr. Kirsch, who rides the fold-up bike, has provided interesting perspectives into various current affairs. There's the woman who just started commuting by bike and is reluctant to buy a helmet (just check my leg if you think you won't crash). And my latest friend … the guy who works security at Angels Stadium. I enjoy talking to him about baseball.

The 11 people who perished on that train in 2005 didn't deserve that fate. Nor do the good people who ride the train now. Let’s hope there are no others out there like the 29-year-old man who was convicted of murder yesterday.

— Doug J 

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