Monday, May 5, 2014

McKenzie Hartmann - Florida Highway - 4th period

So this article is essentailly about the heroic endeavors of a veteran to save several stranded people along a Florida highway.  This may not sound newsworthy, but what occurs after his assistance is.  As Chad Ries began to exit his vehicle to approach the stranded people, he was struck and killed by a car speeding down the road.  Alcohol has been identified as being in the system of the suspects, while this event has engendered much controversey and inspired many to take a stand against the already prominent cause against driving under the influence.  Ries leaves behind two young children and a wife.  The sad irony of his death lies in the fact that he served multiple tours in Iraq, yet does just miles from his home.  As his family and friends jour him, the community surrounding the small Florida town is using his unfortunate passing as inspiration for a bigger cause and working hard to ensure his family receives justice.

This is incredibly sad.  Drunk driving is an epidemic and the worst part about it is that you not only endanger your own life, but that of those around you.  The only consolation in this is that the man who lived a hero died a hero, with his last action being his attempt to help those in need.  I hope those responsible are appropriately sentenced and this raises more awareness in the community about driving under the influence.

http://www.wtsp.com/story/news/local/hillsboroughcounty/2014/05/05/veteran-chad-ries-good-samaritan-killed-apollo-beach/8709605/?hpt=us_bn8

2 comments:

  1. This is a terrible story. I just shows that people never learn. The numerous campaigns against drunk driving have obviously not been fully successful, which is quite tragic. I surely hope the drunk driver gets a sentencing that will suit the crime.

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  2. Anyone who might think about driving under the influence or has done so in the past will read this article and realize the magnitude of their mistakes. They will see that drinking and driving is not a trivial thing that they will most likely get away with; the horrible consequences towards the victims of drunk drivers will be mad more evident to people thinking of drinking and driving.

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