A murderous attack that will not stand

THE murder of Seattle Police Officer Timothy Brenton and the attempted murder of Officer Britt Sweeney are a personal tragedy, a professional loss and a fundamental assault on the community.

A career in public safety attracts people who will risk their lives to help others. Their readiness to put themselves in dangerous circumstances — be it confronting criminals or running into burning buildings — is basic to life in a civil society.

Police officers and firefighters know they face hazards every day they wear their uniforms. Physical and emotional dangers come in the line of duty. This shooting is different. Two officers parked in their squad car on a residential street apparently drew fire as random, anonymous targets.

Brenton and Sweeney suffered a murderous attack Saturday night because they symbolized a lawful, civilizing presence in our lives. Divining a motive for the assault is to wade into the fetid imaginations of the dangerously self-absorbed and their rationalization of madness.

No one imagines the resolution of this bloody crime is not a high priority for the law-enforcement community, with its sense of loss and sorrow that comes with shared experiences and common bonds.

This attack is bigger than one close-knit professional organization. Repudiation of the murder and attempted murder must flow throughout the city, because the violence is a communal threat.

Heartfelt condolences are extended to the families of the two officers, and their colleagues. Unspoken respect for the daily work of those who enforce the laws is belatedly acknowledged.

Expectations of swift, sure justice in this case are a balm for fear and anger. This lethal incident will not stand as a violent new direction for the city.