Ball State University junior Todd Lamkin, 21, was behind the wheel of the car during the Jan. 27 accident that killed freshman Travis Smith.
Muncie Police Sgt. Brad Arey said that in addition to officers at the scene smelling alcohol, Lamkin admitted to drinking prior to the accident. This gave authorities probable cause to conduct blood toxicology tests - the results of which have yet to return, Arey said.
Lamkin's situation represents a predicament countless other Ball State students place themselves almost every weekend. And as the wildness of Spring Break 2007 begins, the potential for alcohol-related problems is even greater.
We know it's worthless to beg and plead for of-age students not to drink. It's a legal privilege, after all. But with privilege comes responsibility, along with applicable forewarning.
In Lamkin's defense, the Delaware County Prosecutor's office has not charged Lamkin with any violation of the law. Only after results are delivered to the office will a decision be made in respect to such charges, if any. Meanwhile, Lamkin is left in a frightening position of uncertainty.
He must continue to wait for the results of the state test before he's officially in the clear. If results are not favorable, his worries have only begun. It's difficult to imagine how Lamkin feels - having experienced the death of a friend and now being forced to wait to learn the results of a blood test that prosecutors could use against him. The uncertainty is something Lamkin must deal with for what could be another two weeks, on top of the five he's already waited - not what you'd call a very comfortable period of time.
We say this not to place blame on or ridicule Lamkin - that's certainly not our place. Instead, we use his scenario as a reminder to students of any age who plan drink even the slightest amount of alcohol.
Be safe. Be smart. Be careful.
Driving after drinking is always a risk. True - it is a risk numerous adults across the country take each day. Each state upholds a legal blood alcohol content percentage as its limit, but few people have the ability to check their BAC before departing a party or bar. If you've had too much, you know the right thing to do.
Even without a car, alcohol can wreak havoc on the perfect Spring Break trip. Alcohol's effects impair judgment as much as mobility. Going home with that hot stranger from the bar might seem like a great idea ... until you realize the pills in his back pocket are a) "roofies," or b) medication for one of his several sexually transmitted diseases.
In the freedom of foreign territory, the temptation to lose sight of responsibility is often overpowering. Drink in moderation and curb the freestyle drinking binges that lead to poor decisions.
Although encouraging an alcohol-free vacation seems ideal, we also know it's unrealistic. While the absence of classwork and boring lectures is worth every bit of enjoyment this Spring Break, work with your friends to avoid a potentially fatal absence of mind.
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