On Red River Street in downtown Austin, on March 12, 2014, during SXSW, Rashad Owens drove while intoxicated and sped through a crowd of people, resulting in three counts of capital murder and 22 counts of aggravated assault. A breath test revealed Owen’s blood-alcohol content was .114, which exceeds the limit of .08.

 As a community we should use this as a reminder to be cautious behind the wheel and to never let anyone get behind the wheel when intoxicated. Many Vandergrift students attended SXSW, as did I. As much fun as it was we all need to still remain careful when at events such as SXSW. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings. It is important to pay attention to the people around you.

Drinking and driving can not only hurt you, it can hurt others around you. There are many severe consequences to drinking and driving. The one mistake of drinking and driving can affect the rest of your life, and others lives.

Be smart behind the wheel. Drinking and driving is not worth your life or anyone else’s life. If you notice someone getting in a vehicle when under the influence of alcohol let someone know. You can put a stop to what can be a potential death sentence.