ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the livestreaming of the Christchurch shooting as a critical incident in journalism that triggered reflections not just among journalists but also among social media users on the practice of livestreaming. At the crux of critical incidents is a moment when journalism professionals discuss their practices and norms, which allows boundaries of their profession to be challenged and set. Studies have demonstrated how audiences now take part in publicly reflecting about and negotiating the hows and whys of journalism practice, finding a space to publicize their thoughts and feelings online. Understanding how non-journalists navigate such ethical dilemmas and negotiate the boundaries of acceptable journalistic practice is increasingly important. The chapter conceptualizes the Christchurch terror attack as a critical incident that triggered a process of introspection among social media users. The shooting on March 15, 2019 in Christchurch, New Zealand ended 17 minutes after it began.
