Just watched "Dear Zachary" and am sitting here stunned and completely emotionally drained. I can't remember the last time a documentary has affected me so much.

Watching this made me ashamed to be Canadian.

As a Canadian, who has already questioned the criminal justice system, this story has throughly disgusted me with. Andrew, Zachary and thier parents/grandparents are inspiring. I was touched beyond belief, thank you goes out to all of the friends and family for thier contributions and for the very special friend who made the documentary...many blessings to you all!

What an unjustuce for this family. I cannot imagine their grief.

After watching this senseless tragedy unfold before our eyes, I, like thousands of others, I am sure, moved from incredible sadness over the loss of two innocent people to a burning anger at our government's failure to protect, at the very least, Andrew's life. Please tell me exactly what I can do to ensure that the laws that allow accused murderers to get out on bail are changed so that this can NEVER happen again. Thank God that Mr. and Mrs. Bagby had the courage to continue the fight, in spite of their loss, to bring this injustice to light and prevent the further loss of innocent lives!

Btw, I find it inappropriate that your headline describes this tale of failed just as a "crime thriller". This seems completely inappropriate!

I must have missed it on the Documentary but did Zachary`s mother commit suicide or is she still alive? Thanks, chcoleman

A masterful work; inspiring, shocking, riveting. This documentary exposes so much about our justice system including the biases it holds in favour of those seen as 'pillars of society'. I doubt that given the charges against her Shirley would have been granted so many privileges and required to provide so little assurances were she a poor woman, or one of modest status, rather than being a doctor. Most of all the film asks the question what is justice? And where is it found? If not in the hearts and minds of people like the Bagleys, when will the search for justice in our society end? Like Joyce Milgard these parents showed that unconditional love and unquestioning commitment is the key to answering those questions on behalf of their children, and of us all.

Wow, very moving documentary, my tears were flowing. My heart goes out to Kate and David. The filmmaker did an amazing job capturing the essence of Andrew and his family. I wish, as I'm sure Kate and David do every minute of every day, that Zachary was alive to enjoy a full life with incredible people, he would have made a difference in this world for sure.

... in light of the almost inhumane delay in the legal process to extradite their son's murderer and safe-guard their grandson, David's plan to kill Shirley seemed logical and even justifiable
... what is it that prevents us from following our own gut and common sense?
... a delusion that we can civilly deal with evil?
... the governments delusion that only their laws will protect us and that we must all remain as sheep until they come to our rescue?
... are we so hopelessly dependant on our police and government departments to protect us?
... how many times has that been proven inadequate and much too often fatally wrong.

... this is Canada; if David would have carried through his plans, her evil would have been overshadowed by a political and feminist outcry against vigilantyism and violence against women (and even again against guns whether used or not - the Liberals were in power in 2003); but at least Zachary would have been safe.

... the Liberal government and every feminist leaning thinker who believes "all women need more of a break than any man" have blood on their hands from this;
... had David shot Shirley, I can't for one moment believe that any judge (especially female) would have freed him as they did her; and he would not have been offered the same level of government support as she received here.

... Canada's Bill of Rights (brought in by a Liberal government) provides more power & security to those who would and could bring harm than to those who actually deserve protection.
... as a Canadian, there is an absolutely inexcusable lapse in common sense in Canada's (far too liberal) laws

I just finished wathing this story and I cried so hard baby Zachery was a very precious little boy. And my heart breaks for the grandparents and it makes me mad it takes a tragedy to change the justice system I will be purchasing the book

This film touched me deeply and intensely. I can not remember the last time a film had me shed a tear and tonight, I sobbed openly three different times.

The strength and determination of the Bagby parents/grandparents left me in awe. It saddened so much to see the horrors that they have had to endure and will continue to endure for the rest of their lives. It simply breaks my heart. To rise up in the absolute darkest of times in an effot to bring change so that no other family may have to take on endure what they have...that no other innocent individual has their life cut short...I find them inspiring.

As soon as I finish typing this comment, I am going to do an internet search to find out more on the changes they seek to bring forth. I urge anyone else whoi has been equally touched to do the same so that if anything, you may supply an informed insight to others when sharing their cause.

Thank you for such an important film.

This movie put me in such a weird mood, and I cannot even begin to the understand the emotions that began to run both through my heart and mind.

The first I automatically understood was the anger and disgust I felt towards this entire situation and how our government failed to protect one of it's own.

I'm going to admit that I've always been a little slow when it came to our government. I never took the time to sit and try to understand it, and don't even try to explain the election process to me, because it goes in one ear and right out the other.

Now, I've heard people complain about it- I mean, who hasn't?- and I would nod and listen, pretend to become so involved and act my way as if I knew just exactly what the hell they were talking about.

While watching this documentary, I felt shame. Shame for being blindfolded by such disgust, and for the first time in my life, shameful of being a Canadian citizen. For being lead like a sheep in flock of brainwashed. Our justice system is cruel and pathetic. It burns my heart, and maybe that's why I can't figure out the proper words for this. I really just want to go outside and scream.

A huge thank you for the makers of this film. I could only imagine what you went through. I appreciate the strength you obviously have, and I wish for nothing but the best for you. May you be filled with love and karma wrap in you warm blanket.

I was absolutely mortified with the judicial system in Newfoundland and it is throughtout this country. To lose a son was awful then the murder-suicide of the precious little boy was the fault of the judge that let that horrible excuse for a mother loose. I pray that this young mans parents gets the support from the federal government to never leave children the most innocent of our little beings be in the custody of a parent found to be charged with such a heinous crime. Shame on the system, shame on the child and youth, when are they ever going to wake up

My wife is bawling and I am so upset I can barely speak. The absolute insult and travesty here would be to know that Judge Walsh still sits on the bench or that any of the others involved in the hierarchy of this kangaroo court are still practicing in their professions. We (my wife and I) sit stunned and scared as fellow Canadians watching how criminals are running to our beloved country to carry out crimes or run from persecution knowing full well that our government will lend a sympathetic ear. How can anyone see this otherwise? Sad, just truly and plainly sad. Our prayers are with you Kate and David and we thank you for enduring this unbelievable horror to bring about positive change for the rest of your countrymen.

I just finished watching this program and I found it very disturbing. I was filled with so much anger and saddness, of David and Kate losing 2 people they love so much, and the criminal justice system that has failed another victim. How long do we have to put up with incompetent people at the top. Every single person who failed that family should be brought to answer for their mistakes. These incompetent people should not be allowed to earn a living anymore....they seem to be the type that are only after the almighty dollar and not in whats doing right for society.
I commend David and Kate for their crusade to change the system. Maybe it will save another family from going through the same ordeal they went through.
Even though this has happened quite some years ago., my heart goes out to all the family and friends.

Kurt & CBC have done such a tremendously, heartwretching film. Yet, its done is such a way to honour Zachary's Grandparents in their strive to share their love -- As Seen Thru your eyes & their family ... I wanted to stop, but your words, the family's, the grandparents ... Hoping that the gov't has changed, for the better -- I cannot imagine the family's pain x2.

I was deeply moved by this documentary...you struck every emotion of my whole being... The criminal justice system failed terribly, letting a accused murderer to walk the streets and damage so many lives....I was truely disgusted by all those who slacked off in their jobs..in the end are responsible just as she was in Zachary's death. My heart goes out to the of family of Andrew and Zachary....what a beautiful strong family...a true inspiration of family, strength, courage & love....

I am watching Dear Zachary( I couldn't wait till it finished to start writing this) and am having a uniquely truly sad revelation. Considering myself a truly proud Canadian and Newfoundlander, I have to confess watching this documentary (as well as a ridiculous number of almost daily examples on the news) made me feel outright shame and disgust at the Canadian judicial system, the Canadian government, and the abhorrent status quo of what seems to be a radically dysfunctional and compromised way of upholding the law. What seems to pass as just and/or right in our courtrooms- whether from a strictly legal or from a commonsensical middle of the road Average Joe point of view is absolutely unacceptable! I feel Canada is failing to uphold a most basic truth in being frontrunners and/or leaders of the free world by letting the worst side of our society such as convicted murderers,rapists and pedophiles have what the majority of the population(especially victims) would consider vastly inadequate punishment. If we cannot hold our government accountable for what is happening and to push for significant change in the protection of the people who need it most ,then we are truly in trouble.

We watched Dear Zachary tonight - a more touching and heartbreaking documentary I have never seen.God Bless Zachary's wonderful and loving grandparents. We grieve for their losses. I was never more ashamed of the Canadian government and our justice system. I pray that Zachary's story will create an outcry for reform so that no one ever has to endure such a nightmare ever again. If there is any hope in this tragic story it is that Zachary and his father are together. Kurt Kuenne put together a film that is such a tribute to Andrew and Zachary. David and Kathleen - you are more brave and stronger than you can possibly know. We pray that you are strengthened and comforted knowing how loved Andrew and Zachary are by such a wonderful family and so many, many friends.

Thank you for sharing this heartbreaking story! Zachary and Andrew thank-you for reminding us about how precious life is! David and Kathleen my heart goes out to you!

Kurt, I watched this film last night.
You created a very compelling documentary that puts a human face on a tragic story, the deaths of a father and son. Thank You.
Thanks also to Kate and David for not ending the battle for accountability when their grandson was also killed. There needs to be changes to the laws and legal system in Canada (I was going to say justice system but I don't think justice was ever served in this case and many other cases).
It appears way too often that the accused and offenders have more rights than the victims and the public, and THAT certainly needs to change. Thank you for making this documentary.

I was completely moved by this documentary!!! The strength and courage of Andrew's parents and what they faced in order to be able to see their grandchild is inspiring. This documentary brought various of emotions in me from joy, anger and sadness. Due to the unbelievable way the Canadian justice system dealt with this woman, this very precious boy Zachery had lived too short of a life. I want to thank the director for sharing this story and for the amazing way it was shot, unfortunately it did not end the way it was suppose to. Many blessings to the family and may Andrew and Zachery rest in peace and be in the company of eachother!

Wow, I can't stop crying. I can't hold my baby enough after this documentary has aired. Poor Andrew and Zachary and especially Mr. and Mrs. Bagby. What wonderful people. The "LAW" in Canada is screwed up and still now criminals walk the streets, and when they are finally in prison, they are there for a short visit. Embarrassing for Canada!!!

I have never CRIED so Much in my LIFE!!!!! I don't know how the Bagbys could survive what they have gone through! My sincerest regards, and i am dearly sorry for your losses!!! Both your son, and Grandson are a perfect example of how Canada has one of the weakest justice systems. I would indeed feel the same anger and rage, But mostly, Im dearly greatful for the action you are both taking, and making a stand against this evil, mental case, of a thing that itch is!!!! I am dearly dearly sorry!!! May your babies rest in peace!!!!

I had watched "Dear Zachary" last night, and like so many other viewers, was deeply saddned, by this horrific story. Being a mother and grandmother, I could only imagine the pain that Kate and Dave had gone through. I laid in bed sobbing, at the sadness of loosing your child and grandchild. This should not have happened. Something has to change. My heart goes out to the the family and friends. God Bless you!

A documentary that is still with me today, a most troubling and outraging case. I doubt sincerely that Shirley Turner would have been treated by the judicial system in the same way, without the title of Doctor. I hope those in positions of power reflect profoundly on these events and realize that if a couple of ordinary citizens can have such an impact, their duty as human beings should come first. This documentary is also an amazing tribute to the power of love and passion. The rest is, as we know, meaningless really.

Like everyone who has seen this documentary, I was in shock and sadness by how the story ended. If you really want to help this family, please write to your MP and urge him/her to support MP Scott Andrews' bill in support of a law denying bail to people accused of murder and awaiting trial. You can get more information (as I did) from www.dearzachary.com.

As Canadians, we all too frequently voice our opinions amongst each other but we don't take the necessary steps needed to make a difference. Please communicate with your MPs and let them know where you stand. They are our link to gov't and through them I hope we can reach the upper levels where changes are made.

I pray for the family and friends of the Bagby family--truly role models for us all. Thank you CBC for airing this special documentary.

If you want to know exactly what to do to change the law - at the top of this page is a link in the sentence - Tell us what you think of this film. Click on "this film" and it will take you to a page which helps you find your M.P. by postal code, and even helps you compose a letter to them. Please act now on the emotions you felt after watching this excellent documentary! Write your M.P. and honour the memory of Andrew and Zachary! It will only take seconds of your time to make a difference!

It has been 15 hours since I sat down to watch what I already knew would be a sad story. But I had no idea the amount of emotion I was about to invest in this hour and a half or that it will continue to affect me for the rest of my life.

Ever since the end of the documentary I knew I wanted to comment. I wanted to share my thoughts, feelings and opions.

But as I sit here I still can't put into words the rage I feel. After the show aired I just sat there, I wiped away my tears and tried to let go of the pain I felt in my heart. I was also trying to grasp the concept of what I had just seen.

Once I felt I could get up off my couch my first thought was to run upstairs and to hold my daughter.

She is the same age as Zachary was when he was taken from his family forever. I can't even begin to imagine what Kate and David went through the moment they were told they would never see baby Zachary again. when I begin to even think about it my eyes fill with tears, which then stream down my cheeks. I feel a knot in my throat and then I make myself think of anything else.

I am so sorry that Kate and David along with the many family and friends in the documentary cannot turn off the emotion and cannot just think of anything else. Their courage, strength and love inspires me.

I thank you Kurt for making such a moving, heatbreaking, and inspiratonal film. I have read the above comments and I agree with my fellow peers. I also am ashamed to be a canadian. I was brought up believing Canada was a free country, I just didn't realize how "free" the people are. We see stories concerning all types of criminals on our daily news networks and continue to follow these stoires. We see over and over again how our "justice" system fails the victims and us as citizens.

One comment in particular written by Stephanie, touched on how she admits she is a "little slow" with the knowledge of our governtment. She states that the "process goes in one ear and out the other" I am glad she came forth and admited this. Becase I also feel the same way. I am 25 years old and have never bothered to educate myself about our government. I never felt the motivation, nor the passion to learn about a government that has failed me and many people who have came in and out of my life.

Growing up seeing my mother beaten by my step "father" I was taught the police would take away bad people who hurt us or our loved ones. One day I called these so called protectors, they came to our house to find a very scared little girl and a bruised and battered woman. The officers told my mother because they did not see any physical altercation nothing could be done. If he was to "attack" her again we should call right away next time. I had called durring this attack and when they got there my step "father" was done doing what he felt he was allowed to do.

I called back several times while growing up trying to protect my mother and each and everytime there was always an excuse that allowed him to walk freely to repeat over and over. It always seemed like he was the victim, like my mom always must have done something to provoke an attack.

In high school when they would even mention laws, goverenment or justice I would also let in go in one ear and out the other.

I am greatful that there are people like Kate and David who are strong enough to fight and make changes.

I thank you David and Kate for you have given me hope that my daughter will grow up in a better world. I truely wish there were more people like you both.

Today I am going to purchase " Dancing with the Devil". I will share this book and your story with as many people as I can in the hopes it will inspire them to be better people and make the changes we need to make so we can live in a safer country.

Sincerely,

Lisa Solomon

This story just broke my heart. Thank you so much to the director for such a moving story. I couldnt move from the television as Andrew's story and life was being told. I was hoping for a happy ending and was devastated when baby Zak was murdered by his cowardice selfish sick incubator (she is not deserving of being called a mother) I am a spiritul person so I believe the devil is in hell,and father and son are together...Andrew was soo lucky to have so many friends..i wish he would have taken his friends advice and went out the back door and run...he would be here today and talking with his friends over a cold beer

I was deeply sadened after seeing this movie. I keep thinking about Andrew's parents and what kind of life they are leading now that they have lost everything. May God be with them in this most difficult life.

If there is a lesson in any of this tragedy and travisty of justice, it is that we, as Citizens of this great country of Canada need to be aware of our judicial process, and that we have the ability to petition and make change. Do as I have and send a letter to you Minister of Parliament supporting changes that will protect our children and our families in the future. We are the ones that can make the difference.

I am very sadden by what happened. Those two judges need to be held responsible for what happened as well!

Like a lot of people who have commented here, I was emotionally drained by the end of the documentary. Very few documentaries have affected me as much.