Carson Briere, Mercyhurst University student, and hockey player, is the culprit seen on video deliberately tumbling a disabled student's wheelchair down some stairs at Sullivan’s Irish Pub in Erie, Pennsylvania. He seemingly mocks the student's disability by sitting in the chair before pushing it down. Carson is also the son of Daniel, Briere, former NHL player and interim general manager of the Philadelphia Flyers (source).
**This article is based on information sourced from news and social media websites, cited within the story**
Why Would Someone Do Something Like This?
Many commenters to the video footage asked or sounded off on this question. One commented that it was cold behavior even if he was inebriated, and others said that he won't be held accountable or disciplined in any way for committing such a cruel act because his dad is rich. Other comments alleged Briere's perceived sense of entitlement and accused his behavior as a product of bad parenting.
Watch the video here:
Who's Wheelchair was It?
According to a news report, the wheelchair belonged to 22-year-old, double amputee Sydney Benes who lost both of her legs in a tragic car accident. She was in the restroom when Briere pushed her wheelchair down the stairs. And reportedly empathizers have chipped in and raised about $9,000 for her but she has so far refused to accept any of it. She says she is thankful for the support but she feels like it should be donated to others who need it (source).
Consequences and Punishment?
Shortly after the incident, the pub's security manager removed Briere from the establishment after viewing the security footage, citing they have zero tolerance for that type of behavior. The security manager seems to not be so convinced that Briere's apology is sincere, as he says that bad behavior just breeds more bad behavior (source).
Reportedly Briere was placed on 'interim' suspension from Mercyhurst's hockey team, as well as the two other student-athletes in the video with him. He has since apologized for his actions. After the video footage went viral on social media, he issued the following statement (source).
I am deeply sorry for my behavior on Saturday. There is no excuse for my actions and I will do whatever I can to make up for this serious lack of judgment.
His dad, Daniel Briere, also issued a statement, saying:
I was shocked to see Carson's actions in the video that was shared on social media . . . They are inexcusable and run completely counter to our family's values on treating people with respect.
A statement issued by Mercyhurst University stated the video made their "hearts heavy" but also stated that students making poor choices should be given an opportunity to "learn, change behaviors, and atone for harmful actions."
The video has sparked a great deal of backlash, conversation, and debate playing out among the public, athletes, and the media.
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