Very few situations in life benefit from knee-jerk reactions or a rush to judgment. Whatever the circumstances recently at the Lawrence County Jail to claim the life of a 23-year-old inmate, it certainly is not one of those situations.

Steven J. Conley, of Kitts Hill, was pronounced dead Saturday after complaining of chest pains, leaving family members hurt, angry and appalled over what they see as malfeasance and injustice. Officials at the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office say proper procedure was followed and this is a tragedy that could not have been foreseen or prevented. Meanwhile polarized public outcry on both sides range from condemning jail officials for mishandling the situation to criticizing Conley for past lifestyle choices.

The most important thing to remember is that patience truly is a virtue and everyone should allow the investigation and autopsy to be completed before passing judgment.

Until all the facts are in it is impossible to know what occurred and where the blame, if it is merited, should lie.

Unfortunately, nothing can ever change the past but the autopsy and independent investigation will provide everyone much needed answers. Only then can a real opinion and response be created.