Media retracts info about outrage over killing. What was first publicized as damage to 300 businesses in Oakland, Calif. last week is now reported as no more than about 40 broken windows and a few garbage cans thrown into the street. Bay-area media outlets including KTVU Channel 2 have given what they say is more accurate information about the demonstrations that followed the killing of Oscar Grant by a transit authority cop. One police car was burned, but there were no gunshots, no robberies and no looters on the Wednesday night when 100 people were arrested hours after a peaceful demonstration shut down the rail stop where Grant was shot to death. Video shows that Grant, 22, was handcuffed and on the ground at a train station when officer Johannes Mehserle fired a bullet into his back. Grant had appeared to pose no threat to Mehserle or any other officer at the scene. Critics of the media who were so quick to paint a picture of savagery by Blacks after the seemingly racist murder include well-known hip hop journalist Davey D. The blogger writes: “…we had to endure endless news reports and commentary most likely fed from police accounts and echoed by newspaper reporters who were not even on the scene…” Grant, a grocery store butcher, was killed New Year’s Day. Mehserle quit the police force and has pleaded not guilty in Grant’s murder.

Annual event showcases 2009 vehicles. In spite of an ongoing money crisis that has left American auto-makers with an uncertain future, a leading car event has raised $2.6 million. The North American International Auto Show’s Charity Preview drew 7,000 people to the annual Michigan event on Friday. The proceeds will go to a host of community organizations and causes, including March of Dimes and the Boys and Girls Clubs. “In light of such tough economic times, it’s great to see so many kind hearts step up and answer the needs of the children…” spokesman Joe Serra says. Past celebrities who’ve attended the annual North American International Auto Show include Jay Z, 50 Cent, boxer Evander Holyfield and actress Rosie Perez. The Auto Show runs through Jan. 25.

TAGS: 2009 vehicles, 300 businesses, auto show, Killing, KTVU, Media, oakland, report, retracts

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