Here’s a summary of the notable events reported in the Buffalo News from September 5, 1974:
1. Tragic Death of Officer David J. Scime
- Incident: Officer Scime, 24, a Buffalo patrolman with only 14 months on the force, was killed in a car accident involving a stolen vehicle.
- Details: While pursuing a stolen car, Scime’s patrol car was struck as the car sped towards it without headlights, causing him to be thrown from his vehicle and subsequently dragged under it for 67 feet before hitting a utility pole.
- Injuries: Officer Scime suffered severe injuries and died at Millard Fillmore Hospital. His partner, Officer William J. Logal, sustained injuries but survived.
- Perpetrator: Samuel Balsano, 17, was arrested as the driver of the stolen vehicle and charged with unauthorized use of a stolen vehicle.
2. Frustrated Inventor Charles A. Shaw
- Shaw has been working for 20 years on a project to generate electricity from ocean currents using a paddle wheel mechanism.
- Despite believing his invention could produce energy more cheaply and with less pollution than current methods, he has struggled to find support and has faced rejection from various government and private sectors.
- He emphasizes the challenges faced by independent inventors and has expressed hope for encouragement from the government under the new administration.
3. Additional Coverage
- The newspaper also reported on local issues, including a probe into slum conditions and other community concerns, reflecting on the socio-economic challenges of the time.
This snapshot captures both the local tragedy of losing a young officer and the persistent struggles of innovators seeking to make impactful changes within their communities.
