The Devastating Consequences of Drunk Driving: A Tragic Loss and a Call for Change

In the United States, approximately 'number of drunk drivers killed per week' people are killed every week due to drunk driving. This senseless loss of life is a harsh reality that affects not only the victims' families but also the entire community. The tragic story of Kristina Chesterman, a 21-year-old nursing student from California State University, Chico, serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving.

On September 22, 2013, Kristina was struck and killed by 19-year-old Riley Hoover, who was under the influence of alcohol. According to reports, Hoover left Kristina's lifeless body on the side of the road and returned to his apartment to pass out drunk. This heinous crime is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving.

The statistics surrounding drunk driving are alarming. In Sacramento County alone, nearly 1,000 people were killed or injured in drinking and driving incidents in 2012. Similarly, in Butte County, 186 people were either killed or injured in alcohol-related traffic incidents that year. These numbers are a testament to the pervasive problem of drunk driving and the need for immediate action.

One of the most disturbing aspects of this issue is the repeat offender phenomenon. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), about one-third of all drivers arrested or convicted of drunk driving are repeat offenders. In Hoover's case, he was already on felony probation at the time of the accident and had previously been pulled over for DUI in Ohio.

The Chesterman family is still reeling from their loss and is seeking accountability from Hoover. They hope that by holding him responsible, they can effect change and prevent another family from experiencing a similar devastating loss. As Kristina's family continues to grieve, her memory serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing this issue head-on.

In conclusion, the tragic story of Kristina Chesterman is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving. The numbers are staggering, and the need for change is urgent. It is imperative that we come together as a community to support victims' families and work towards creating a safer environment for everyone on our roads. By doing so, we can honor the memories of those who have lost their lives due to drunk driving and prevent future tragedies from occurring.

Number of drunk drivers killed per week