Rush To Judgement, Is Social Media Helping or Hindering

I pose this question due to the current tragedy that has cropped up in the news within the last 24 hours and with the rash of videos that have been taken on their phones and then posted to social media does this help or hinder the circumstances?  By posting these videos is there a risk to be run that court cases can be thrown out due to prejudice?

First off I have to say that I have no problem per say with social media, it opens our world to the exchange of ideas and the ability to share within all boundaries of the world so from that standpoint it's great.

I know we live in a world of free speech and freedom of expression but is there a line that should be drawn?  Is everything open to a public forum?  Is there a rush to judge when postings are put on social media without all the facts?

In a world where everyone seems to be on edge about everything and just the slightest spark can ignite a full blown inferno, where is the responsibility of the individuals who publicize video, photos and information?  Where is the social responsibility of individuals lie?

This is all just food for thought, I think the exchange of ideas on social media is one of the highlights of the medium but it is always sad the witch hunts that can take place.

What are your thoughts?