THE WATER COOLER FROM FACEBOOK. COM/STATESMAN
Following a deadly shooting at a gathering of bikers in Waco last weekend, Austin police held a news conference during which they said officers will approach the upcoming Republic of Texas Biker Rally as they always have: by using investigative sources to head off potential violence before it happens. The detective said that the violent “factions” of the biker community are not typically a big presence at the June rally, which is the largest ticketed biker gathering in the United States.
Rob Austin: I think the ROT rally should be canceled. If I’m in a restaurant and the bikers come in, I’m leaving. Looking at the booking photos of those arrested — they look like every other biker I’ve seen. They are not just 20-year-olds. It’s just not safe.
Blaze Callahan Austin: We have nicer bikers.
Chris Cole: Motorcycle clubs bring a lot of good and support their communities. It’s the police who were out of control.
Ruby Heavne: Y’all need to tell them we don’t want them here. They invade the Hill Country and drive like they own the road, making it dangerous for everybody.
Kenny Knoch: People at the ROT rally come to party, not fight. Never has anybody been busted for fighting.
Richard Frye: Let’s hope there is peace.
Melia O’Dell: So do we really want the ROT Rally in Austin in June? There’s bound to be some of the same people looking for retribution.