It’s really an ethical question. Did NBC really have to show the video of Nodar Kumaritashvili‘s gruesome death?

On Friday night, the network commenced their coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics on a note far from the one which has been planned. The unexpected death of Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili cast a dark cloud on what should have been an exultant event.

NBC detailed the death of Kumaritashvili. News anchor Brian Williams warned viewers that “the pictures are very tough for some people to watch,” and then went on to show a graphic clip of Kumaritashvii’s last moment–from his waiting at the gate, to his horrific crash in slow motion, to the medics giving the athlete CPR, and lingering shots to Kumaritashvili’s body.

Some people say NBC showed more than what was needed, accusing the network of being irresponsible. Others see it as part of the news.

See the video of Olympic Committee announcing his tragic death.

(story & image from Yahoo Sports)