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Updated: 3:41 PM Oct 16, 2008
Teen Driver Charged With Drinking Before Double Fatal Crash Arrested For Drinking Again
David Jacobson arrested at an Eau Claire house party, admitted to drinking beer and knew it was illegal because of his original homicide charge Posted: 9:33 AM Oct 15, 2008Reporter: WEAU 13 Staff Email Address: news@weau.com |
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Posted by: Jane
Location: Neillsville
on Oct 16, 2008 at 08:01 PM
After helping to kill 2 people already, shouldn't he wake up and realize that he has AGAIN made a "stupid mistake"? How many more mistakes must he make before he has made enough and be held responsible for his own actions? How many more people should he kill before he has killed enough? Not only has he made the bad descisions of drinking, he also made the decsisions to drive drunk! He is a prime example of our society saying drinking is not bad for you, you only make mistakes. I wonder how many people have been actually killed because of those mistakes? Some day it just might be a loved one of those who sympathize with him!
Posted by: davids friend.
Location: eau claire
on Oct 16, 2008 at 04:35 PM
EVERYONE TURNING THEIR BACK ON DAVID WILL NOT BRING MIKE OR SHAWN BACK. WE MUST ACCEPT WHAT HAPPENED. DAVID WILL NOW HAVE TO LIVE WITH WHAT HE DID, WHAT MORE PUNISHMENT CAN ONE ASK FOR? DAVID: YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS. I'M SURE MIKE AND SHAWN ARE WATCHING OVER YOU, WISHING THAT ALL OF THIS WAS NOT HAPPENEING TO YOU. I FEEL FOR THE HIATT FAMILY. I REALLY DO. BUT TRYING TO GET DAVID BEHIND BARS FOR THE REST OF HIS LIFE WILL NOT BRING YOUR SON BACK. LET DAVID LIVE HIS LIFE TO THE FULLEST, FOR DAVID. < 3
Posted by: n
Location: wisconsin
on Oct 16, 2008 at 03:19 PM
okay. for one. david wasnt in the right to be at that party by any means. but 2 micha had no right being at that party either. shes underage just like him. David does deserve to get something but he really is a good kid and wants to do better in life. i love you david!
Posted by: kasey
Location: osseo
on Oct 16, 2008 at 03:04 PM
To REAL SOLDIER, you get it....you must have good parents!! Laws are put in place to protect us, but they only work if people follow them. When you break the law and get a slap on the hand, maybe it is not enough. If you don't break the laws, then you don't have to worry about them being tougher. Too many parents are not "parenting." They are more concerned about their kids being "cool", or just too busy with their own lives. Kids do have their own minds, but they are easily taught right from wrong at a very early age. I have lots of friends who let their kids do "whatever" because after all they are"just kids," and all kids drink, drive crazy, ect. Guess what? I have 3 teens and they DO make good choices, because I taught them to do so! Wake up, everyone, there is enough blame to go around, we all need to start doing what is right. Then good things will follow!! Not messes like this one!
Posted by: s
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 16, 2008 at 02:18 PM
Micha did the right thing. This is Wisconsin......how many of you that have posted can say that you NEVER had a drink while underage? I bet very few if any. This is not about her; this is about David and his blatant disregard for the law and lack of tack/sympathy/sense after MURDERING 2 of his so called best friends. Lock him up and throw away the key!
Posted by: chelsie
on Oct 16, 2008 at 01:59 PM
whats ridiculous is how quick people are to judge david. it wasn't just him that made a bad choice. it was the entire group. mike was not 21. he should have been sober, along with david. you can't point fingers at just one person. david and mike were friends, keep that in mind. would mike want all this harsh reaction on his friend? i would like to think not. it was an accident, its not like he went out that night with the intention of losing two of his best friends. micha- i understand that you are hurt. but david is too. he lost someone as well. you can not blame just david for this. please stop the harsh reaction on david, he is trying his best to cope with what happened. put yourself in his shoes, this was a complete accident.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: ec
on Oct 16, 2008 at 01:52 PM
like i said before it would be a good start to change the driving to age 18. most minors should not be driving cars.
Posted by: a friend
Location: ec
on Oct 16, 2008 at 12:55 PM
stop bringing micha and her underages into it...she just lost her brother and david wasnt supposed to be drinking or out past ten and he did...micha did the right thing because if she wouldnt have told who knows what could have happened...im on your side micha and im praying for you and your family...WE MISS YOU MIKE!!!!
Posted by: 123
on Oct 16, 2008 at 12:54 PM
to micha so if you want this drinking and drivin to stop why didnt you sit and call in everyone who leaaves the party or partys you have been to? if you people dont get kids seem to do what they want after 17 and some time even younger so it is not always the parents fault!
Posted by: n
Location: cf
on Oct 16, 2008 at 12:41 PM
i feel for the family that lost their son i realy do ! their son also made the choice to get in the car that night and probly many other nights! the sister is out there doing the same thing her brother died from so she has no room to rip on david.in no way am i saying david did the right thing but alot of people do dd we are just lucky enough nothing like this happens! david had 2 of his friends in the car with him and they are all gone now.That is alot to deal with and yes he should get jail time but he by no means a murder a accident happend!
Posted by: shocked
Location: area, wi
on Oct 16, 2008 at 12:15 AM
There will be punishment in this case and obviously there is a need for it. But keep in mind that on that fateful night, 3 friends who had all been drinking chose to get in a car together and hill jump. Of course none of them thought the ensuing accident would happen, but it can and does happen. Please remember that they all made the same choice that night. I can understand the sister calling this in, but I can only wonder if the tables were turned and her brother was the driver/survivor that night would she have done the same thing. She her self does not have a clean record and I only hope if her parents are truly committed to changing things that they start by helping their daughter. If she does have her 2nd underage already, it's seems that she may be making some poor decisions also-especially if she got one of the tickets after this accident. EVERYONE needs to learn from this!!
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 16, 2008 at 12:02 AM
that boy lost all respect from me. drink. drive. KILL TWO OF MY GOOD FRIENDS.. and have the nerve to go out and "live your life like nothing happened" NUH UHHH.. way to step up micha. i would have done the same thing HOW DARE HIM. ..i feel no pity. this tragic accident went from just that..an accident..to lack of respect for the family members and friends who were close to mike and shawn..to someone making one stupid mistake after another..showing that he just doesnt care. UNBELIEVABLE DAVID.
Posted by: Ashley~ mike's sis
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 11:32 PM
Micha's record has nothing to do with this, so seriousally grow up. None of you people deserve to say anything against my brother...yah so they were good friends but the fine line is that David killed him, and yes i felt bad for him in a way. After he goes out and drinks again 2 months after killing my brother he deserves everything that will come to him. All these negative comments from people to my sister is wrong, she did the right thing and our family will stand up for what's right for our brother. We will get justice for our brother, he deserves that. You so called "friends" who are not on our side don't know him...he was a soldier, son, brother, and uncle~he had been in our lives for 19 years and now he's gone~ it's a nightmare. No one will understand the pain and hurt that we will all go through and i don't think it's too much to ask for a little respect for our family!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: chippewa falls
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:50 PM
How can a guy go out drinking again after killing two of his friends by drinking. Wow David needs to learn a lesson and the only way to learn a lesson in this case is prison, we need to keep him out of society for everyones safety!!! GOD BLESS THE VICTIMS FAMILIES
Posted by: .....
Location: .....
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:32 PM
I think everyone is being a little ridiculous! David is a good kid and you would only know that if you knew him. Micha, I like how you back David up after all this first happened and now turning your back on him! He was like part of your family - - him and Mike were inseperable!!!! And you can't tell me that you go out to parties and don't drink - - If I recall you are underage also. He has to live with this the rest of his life and go through everyday knowing he killed 2 of his best friends, I think that's enough punishment! But in the end everyone has their own opinion - - this is mine!!!! Good Luck with everything David...I Love You!
Posted by: REAL SOLDIER
Location: WI
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:31 PM
Why would I back-up or respect someone that has NO reguard for laws? I have been in the Army for almost 2 years and have already had a deployment under me. You want my respect? Go to Iraq and fight! Going to your buddies house, getting drunk, crashing a car that kills 2 of your friends, and going back out drinking a couple weeks later is NOT it. You want me to respect someone like this? NO ONE SHOULD RESPECT SOMEONE LIKE THIS! This is the type of person that gives ALL of the military a bad name. I hope to GOD that the military discharges him, I sure don't want me or any my friends to fight along side someone like this (doesn't learn from his mistakes)! For those of you who are NOT in the Military and say I should respect or defend this guy... join active Army and get stationed with my unit, you will see how DUI's and Underage's are tolerated! THERE NOT!!!!
Posted by: Confused
Location: Wisconsin
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:20 PM
I have one question. On the 10pm news it says that Micha's parents called the cops because she told them she had seen him at the party drinking (but other reports said she called the cops). But one of her comments below said that she "heard" (but was not there at the house) he was going to be there. What is the truth with that? I'm not saying what was done was wrong (meaning the cops being called), but why is the story changing?
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 08:04 PM
I must of looked in the wrong spot but only seen where she got 1st offense in August AT THE SAME ADDRESS as this house party and a tobacco fine. BUT WHAT DOES THAT HAVE TO DO WITH ANYTHING?????????? SHE DID THE RIGHT THING TURNING THE KID IN!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: f
Location: k
on Oct 15, 2008 at 08:01 PM
i can undestand where micha and her family are coming from totally. and i dont agree with the choices that david has been making. i know for fact that david went out drinking the weekend after the accident like nothing happend. honestly if you have a heart how can you do it.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 07:02 PM
Good For You Micha!!! You did the right thing and im very impressed!! :) as for david.. LOCK HIM UP!! why would you ever go drinking again this soon when you just got done killing your friends by drinking and driving and hill jumping or whatever. anyone who sticks up for david is pathetic because he obviously will never learn. TEACH THESE UNDERAGE DRINKERS A LESSON! lock him up for a very long time. if i killed my friend i would never be out drinking a month or however long after. david jacobson is a joke and i cant believe anyone could ever say anything about this to micha she lost her brother. i mean seriously she lost a huge part of her life and the killers out drinking and having a good time... ???
Posted by: Disgusted
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 06:46 PM
Anonymous... This ISN'T about Micha. This is about David. You must be a politician to try to turn the tables!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: WI
on Oct 15, 2008 at 06:36 PM
This kid is a waste of a life.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 06:01 PM
Also, look at micha haitts record. It says she was charged with her 2nd offense underage at the end of September.
Posted by: Disgusted
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 05:59 PM
Well said Micha! You did the right thing. You probably even saved a life! God bless you and your family.
Posted by: Disgusted
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 05:55 PM
So, anonymous, here's YOUR lesson... Nobody got David in trouble, David got David in trouble. If those girls wouldn't have called the police that night, David may have killed yet ANOTHER person. He shouldn't have been there. And as far as his friends backing him up no matter how crazy or dumb the situation and no matter what the consequences, are you saying they'd back David up to drink, drive, kill someone? How pathetic and what an unrealistic comment you made. I felt bad for David. I think he needs alcohol treatment, psychiatric help with his loss, and some guidance. As far as anonymous goes, I think YOU need to be a little more mature!
Posted by: S
Location: eau claie
on Oct 15, 2008 at 05:52 PM
David obviously needs to be locked up; not at home with his "parents." After your "child" murders 2 people, you would think you would keep a eye on 'em. Guess not. Then to hide behind a couch. What a pathetic waste of a human being. He belongs in jail and I hope that I get picked to be on the jury! I have NO sympathy for him or his family. The first time; I felt like he might have deserved a second chance. But after going out and drinking and partying less then 2 months after you KILL 2 of your friends.....NO! Jail is where David belongs for the rest of his life. OH! and nobody cares if he feels "sorry." That is not an acceptable excuse!
Posted by: MX
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 05:28 PM
This is to Anonymous. In your comment you stated "Lets be more mature!!!you may have lost something and you may be bitter" Lost "something"? Would that something be their brother a Human Being? Maybe you should be the one who needs to mature before you make such ignorant comments
Posted by: dianne
Location: ec
on Oct 15, 2008 at 05:21 PM
WISE UP PEOPLE!! A STAND UP GUY? A "GOOD" KID? SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO SERVE HIS COUNTRY? NO!!!! THIS IS BLATENT DISREGARD OF THE RULES PUT INTO PLACE FOR HIM AFTER HE KILLED 2 PEOPLE THE FIRST TIME. THIS KID NEEDS SOME HARSH PUNISHMENT! JUST WHO DOES HE THINK HE IS? WISE UP PEOPLE! GIVE EM' WHAT HE DESERVES, HARD PUNISHMENT! MAYBE HE'LL LEARN ONCE AND FOR ALL HE HAS TO OBEY LAWS.
Posted by: T
Location: WI
on Oct 15, 2008 at 04:35 PM
Any one of those three boys could be in the same situation...I do feel bad for the families and friends of all of those involved. David has a drinking problem and that is obvious, but many teens and adults have drinking problems. Maybe he shouldn't be in jail but instead in rehab. Jail isn't going to give him the councling he needs. I believe Micha had every right to call him in for being at the party, it was a violation. However, would she have called it in if the tables were turned and David was the one that had died and Mike was out? You have to look at this situation from all sides before you start pointing fingers at anyone.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 04:31 PM
for all of you who believe micha is to blame for this situation u are mistaken..put youself in her shoes..if you lost a loved one would you want the person responsible for that death out drinking once again? it simply just shows a lack of remorse for the family..dont make her out to be the bad guy
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 04:21 PM
this just proves that david will never learn his lesson..you can say they were close friends and they all would of wanted this but come on lets get real..the kid is out drinking 2 months after this terrible accident happend..i can also pretty much tell you that this probably isnt the first time david has been out drinking since the accident happened..best of friends or not lets have a little more sympathy for the friends and family who are still having a hard time dealing with their loss rather then being out partying once again knowing that its wrong..for you people who think david doesnt deseve any of this you need to wake up and realize that david has put this on himself and just keeps adding to the trouble hes in..it seems he just doesnt care..it appears to me that he thinks hes going to get nothing for a punishment out of this
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Calire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 03:56 PM
Wow! This guy really "gets it." And people always wonder what is wrong with America's youth.
Posted by: L
Location: Madison
on Oct 15, 2008 at 03:00 PM
Sometimes, things are beyong parents' control. Kids have their own will, and make their own choices. Always have, always will.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 02:30 PM
IF ETHIER OF THEM WERE HERE RIGHT NOW, WE ALL KNOW that NONE of them WOULD WANT any of this going on!!! they were all great friends and if you truly knew who any of them were you'd agree, they were inseperable. People who dont know them have no idea and have no right to be making the judgements they are. Each of those boys would back up any decision the otehr made, no matter how dumb or crazy the situatuion was, and no matter what consequences they would face. The real question is, has anyone learned anything from this other than to blame and judge?? NO not at all, and getting david introuble is of no help to anyone. This is all just adding up to the situation where it isn't needed. Lets be a little more mature!! you may have lost something and you may be very bitter but your not the only one dealing with any of this, remember that!! next time you decide to drink or drive without a liscense as well lets hope you dont get into any trouble! and your underage as well aren't you?
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 02:24 PM
its not nice to say but just cause he is in the army he thinks he can get away with anything
Posted by: LoL
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 02:18 PM
Wow! I can't believe there are still some people who thinks he's a "good" kid. This is the same underage kid who killed two of his friends. Obviously he hasn't learned his lesson. Hiding behind a couch??? Difinately not man enough to face up to his mistakes. And yes no one put a gun to his friends' head and ordered them into the car, but no one also put a gun to his head and forced him to drink. What great friends he has around him. He should be happy to know that his friends are cool enough to let him drink underage. I can probably qualify as a better friend. I'd care enough to tell him to not drink.
Posted by: Micha
Location: Hiatt
on Oct 15, 2008 at 02:16 PM
This is Micha Hiatt. And just to let everyone know, i wasn't there that night. I heard from a friend that he was going to be at that residents. I know not everyone agrees with what i did, but obviously he didn't learn the first time. And seeing him drink and hearing about him being at a party that night was a slap in the face to my family and I.
Posted by: .....
Location: .....
on Oct 15, 2008 at 01:57 PM
Keep your head up David! There are so many people backing you up right now. You are a great guy and everyone knows that. Don't worry about what other people say or, obviously, do...Stay Strong Buddy! I'll see you soon!!!
Posted by: Justin
Location: Osseo
on Oct 15, 2008 at 01:53 PM
ok i want to ask a question how would all of you feel if this was one of your best freinds that was the driver forget the age of him i bet 70 % of you would change your opinions and to micha and her family i am sorry for your loss. Im sorry about your brother and your friend and mine shawn RIP boys im always thinking about you and miss you both now just as much as ever
Posted by: Janice
Location: Holcombe
on Oct 15, 2008 at 01:53 PM
So we read everyday about adults doing the same thing why expect a teen to be any different. Who bought the beer and liquor for them. What was the girl doing there?
Posted by: KC
Location: EC
on Oct 15, 2008 at 01:38 PM
I agree with Anonymous - the people at 444 Garfield need to be charged with a crime. He obvisiouly has NOT learned his lesson. He needs to be locked up for others safety as he can't seem to make good choices by himself. Shame oh his parents for letting him out of their sight after what has already happened.
Posted by: Disgusted
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 01:23 PM
Mom didn't know where he was? Why not? He's a minor! He's in trouble! If ever there is a time to know where your child is, it is now!
Posted by: RBK
Location: Altoona
on Oct 15, 2008 at 01:08 PM
Why is there such a drinking culture in Wisconsin?? And why do our young people think it is o.k. to drink? There seems to be a lack of parenting these days. Teach your children to stand up to their peers and say NO when urged to drink. Drinking causes too many problems in our society. Why do our young people have such an "anything goes" attitude? Are their imaginations so stunted that they cannot think of anything else to do? Parents, wake up, these children are the future of this country!
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 11:38 AM
Way to go Micha! But the real question is why were you there? Or were you there just because you knew David was there? Plus where were the parents of David at? Do they care? Being a friend of the family, his mom didnt know where he was.Do you think he learned his lesson? What more is it going to take? My pray are out for Mike and Shawn.
Posted by: beenthere
Location: Ladysmith
on Oct 15, 2008 at 11:16 AM
Most of the blame lies with the driver,but the others made the choice to ride with him.Im sure he regrets killing is freinds but he didnt have gun to their head
Posted by: Eau Claire parent
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:59 AM
We have to pound it into our children's heads that bad things can and do happen to teenagers. They need to understand how to avoid these situations as best as they can. Do not drive carelessly (some innocent person may lose their life) and don't drink and drive. I show my kids these articles all the time and let them know that the person who doesn't think and causes these accidents will have to pay for it the rest of their lives as will his family and the familys of the people he/she hurt. Think kids and take care of your friends if they decide to take chances. You won't be sorry you did, but you will if something happens and you didn't try.
Posted by: LAO
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:36 AM
Where are the parents? Why don't people ever seen to learn a lesson?
Posted by: Anonymous
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:14 AM
THESE PEOPLE AT 444 GARFIELD AVE HAD BETTER BE CHARGED WITH CONTRIBUTING TO THE DELINQUENCY OF A MINOR FOR ALLOWING UNDERAGE CHILDREN TO DRINK LET ALONE A KID CHARGED WITH KILLING 2 PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: sarah
Location: wi
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:09 AM
ok so i have read a few of the comments and this is a very sad situation, but as for Patrick that says they stopped drinking an hour before, doesn't matter, ,people can be legally drunk the next day after they have stopped drinking 8 HOURS before. so yes drinking i am sure had a huge factor and the hill jumping too. it was a stupid choice made by a bunch of buddies and now families pay the price. BUT i do think that he should get something done for violating the judges rules about not drinking and being home by 10. that was his choice and no one elses and he should get something for that. if you are going to be stupid enough to do it again 2 months later in plain sight then you deserve what you get. and I also think DUI's should result in loss of license but it won't stop them, look at how many people have 10 dui's and are still driving, something needs to change in the justice system. too many people slide and it results in death.
Posted by: Disgusted
Location: Eau Claire
on Oct 15, 2008 at 10:04 AM
Was there a lesson learned here? What in the world is this kid thinking? Why are the parents not involved? This kid is 17 and not in school right now. The parents should be more responsible and keep this kid home and start giving him what he needs so he doesn't need to turn to alcohol. Shame on him and shame on his parents! GROW UP!
Posted by: GOOD FRIEND
Location: EC
on Oct 15, 2008 at 09:55 AM
for those of you that dont know david jacobson is a great kid who made a few bad choices and these so called real soldiers need to man up and be that respect your fellow soldiers ......thought it was one big family LOVE YOU DAVID ......miss you beats and mike
Posted by: REAL SOLDIER
Location: WI
on Sep 10, 2008 at 06:09 PM
I personally think that ALL DUI's should end in a loss of driver license and you have to take the course AGAIN to get them back. If you are caught driving WHILE license are taken away you do a year in JAIL. If you get caught underage drinking and DUI, your license should be gone NO MATTER WHAT until 21. The only way that people are going to get a clue is if you have a severe punishment. In the military if you get a DUI you lose ALL driving privileges on base for a year NO MATTER WHAT! Honestly the state should do the same thing. Something has to be done because what they are doing now is obviously NOT working.
Posted by: unbelievable
Location: kenosha
on Sep 9, 2008 at 09:28 PM
I cannot believe how selfish every single one of you are. Two young men have died and the third lost his life as well. I did not know Mike or David, but Shawn was the best thing that ever happened to me. This is a horrible tragedy. Stop putting the blame on just one person. The three of them knew what they were doing and now all three of them paid the price. That was hard for me to say none the less hard for me to write this, just understand and learn from these mistakes. I will never forget you Shawn you're in my heart and memory forever until we meet again. Fly like an Angel and watch over us. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Sep 8, 2008 at 10:30 AM
Friends, don't let friends drive drunk. I remember that from when I was a kid. Especially if one in the car hasn't been drinking. Kids just don't think that things could happen to them. I never did and was lucky. Now I know how stupid I was. I tell that to my kids all the time. I doubt that David will get much, if any, jail time. He will, however, think of this every day of his life. I pray that he will think twice before getting behind the wheel again after drinking.
Posted by: Dianne
Location: EC
on Sep 7, 2008 at 09:43 PM
One question... WHAT IS IT GONNA TAKE, IT'S AGAINST THE LAW TO DRINK AND DRIVE, GET IT!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 7, 2008 at 08:46 PM
The brain can definately process the pro's and con's of drinking and driving.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Wisconsin
on Sep 7, 2008 at 05:05 PM
I have to ask as a young individual who looks at this accident and can see both sides of the argument, why must most individuals place the blame on one person? Yes the two other individuals in the car are no longer with us to blame for the accident, but why is no one asking what part they played? Do we know all the facts; do the boys have a history of drinking and driving? In this I am not taking about just David, but Mike and Shawn also. I am not saying these guys should be perfect, but not to understand their part in this tragic accident because they are no longer here isn’t right. I don’t wish to offend anyone, but why would a 23 year old who is sober get in the car with a 17 year old that had been drinking? Why if all boys were out for a night of fun would the sober person not drive? Why would they allow a friend to drive drunk? Yes the driver is responsible, but so was everyone who involved.
Posted by: rosa
Location: kenosha wisconsin
on Sep 7, 2008 at 02:36 PM
im going to miss you a lot shawn. your like a brother to me i will do what i have promesed you the last time you there in kenosha . shawn r.i.p.
Posted by: james
Location: Menomonie
on Sep 6, 2008 at 10:19 PM
I agree, the ONLY way to stop this madness is severe punishment for drunk driving' with NO exceptions. . Make it so bad that no one would dare to even try it.
Posted by: anonymous
Location: wi
on Sep 6, 2008 at 04:46 PM
doesn't deserve jail time? first of all, when you get in a car with someone that has been drinking, or let alone if you are the driver, you know exactly what you are getting yourself into, saying a persons brain doesn't develop at 23 yrs of age doesn't matter, not to drink and drive is a natural law and it has been praised over and over, even a five year old could tell you that, your brain doesn't need to be fully developed, and yet we still see people doing it at 65, 70 and 80! no matter what you always have a 50% chance of being injured, critically injured, or even death if you drink and drive, now it took away two young men's lives who were loved and well liked by their peers, family and friends to show "what a good time" can be
Posted by: deb
Location: eu claire
on Sep 6, 2008 at 11:56 AM
a person's brain is not fully developed until they are 23 years of age and the last part to develop is their reasoning of consquences of their actions. The driver does not deserve jail time. The three boys were all in it for a good time. He will have to live with this. He is just a kid who really did not realize that this could result in death. kids think of themselves as invinicible.
Posted by: ANOTHER REAL SOLDIER
Location: WI
on Sep 6, 2008 at 10:26 AM
I personally agree with real soldier. As a soldier in the army it is very embarrassing to know that it is soldiers like this give all of us the reputation of being dangerous and drinkers. And as a mother this outrages me further! What if my daughter was playing outside? What if this stunt was pulled on military orders?? Andrew what if this was your family that was killed in this?? This is a terrible tragedy and I have no doubt that David feels horrible about what happend and I hope he does. I am also hoping that he gets a dishonorable discharge as well. I am embarrassed to know that I fight along soldiers that behave in this manner. As a soldier in the united states military you are held to a higher standard because you trusted with other peoples lives!!!!! I do wish all of the families the best and hope David never drinks and drives ever again!!! Or anyone else who feels the need to put down other soldiers while they have ha numerous drinkin and driving or DUI charges.
Posted by: padg
Location: eau claire
on Sep 6, 2008 at 09:45 AM
rest in peace boys. we all miss you very much. <3
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Menomonie
on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:19 AM
I think that they should find out where this house party was as they are just as responsible for serving a minor! As for the families who lost their loved ones, I'm sorry. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Food for Thought
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:10 AM
Sara, obviously I offer my sincere condolences to you and your family. My reference to "recreational drinking" was not directed at your brother, and I mention it only because it was a factor in this tragedy... admittedly only one of the many factors that came together on that fateful night. Our communities lose a little bit of themselves and a little bit of their "innocence" every time a tragedy like this occurs. But our loss does not compare to yours, your family's, nor that of the other families directly impacted. If something positive can be gotten from this horrible tragedy, it's that we reflect, we talk with our kids about the choices they face, the responsibilities they MUST take seriously, and their own mortality. If the life of even ONE person is saved by doing that, the incredible loss you've experienced may somehow become a valuable lesson for all of us, although it's a lesson that comes at a high cost. Again, my sincere condolences, Sara. I'm terribly sorry for your loss.
Posted by: Will
Location: EC
on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:17 PM
Is it now about time that we get serious about drinking and driving. I say lower the drinking age to 16 but make drunk driving a 5 year prison sentence for the first offence. Folks, that will do what all the useless efforts so far have not.
Posted by: hopeful
Location: Osseo
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:31 PM
I only hope that EVERYONE learns from this. Please, please think before you get behind the wheel of a car. Kids, I know it's easy to think something could never happen to you-we've all been there. However this should be a lesson that IT CAN AND DOES HAPPEN. If there's one positive that can happen from this tragic situation, it's that young and old alike can make a change. Please don't drink and drive and for god's sake stop the hill jumping!
Posted by: stunned
Location: area
on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:24 PM
Hill jumping? Yes, it is something that is done. I've come to discover in the last week that this is something that is much more common than we would think it would be. Drinking and driving did not help this situation, BUT kids, please realize that even sober, hill jumping is a deadly decision. Maybe not just for you and your occupants, but potentially the vehicle on the other side of the hill. THINK RESPONSIBLY! It's no different than playing Russian Roulette. All three individuals made bad, life changing decisions that night. Unfortunate, but that's the reality of it all. Parents, talk to your kids about it. It happens more than you think. Kids, if you know someone is an unsafe driver, don't even get in a vehicle with them.
Posted by: SARA LOESCHER
Location: FLORIDA
on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:07 PM
I Just want to say that my brother SHAWN was NOT DRINKING!! Please continue to pray for these boys everyone lost alot in this accident.Thier memories will never be forgotton. I LOVE YOU SHAWN R.I.P
Posted by: I'm Anonymous, too
Location: Harvard
on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:10 PM
PS -- To Anonymous offering the "grammer" lesson, and I quote: "As for spelling/grammer, the majority of comments have been very poorly written. Where did you all go to school?" It's spelled "grammar". It merits repeating: "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone..."
Posted by: Food For Thought
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 5, 2008 at 05:49 PM
Thanks, Anonymous. Tragedies like these should not be an opportunity to play "People's Court", but rather a chance for introspection and to think about the examples we set for and the lessons we are teaching our children. It's incredibly easy to sit anonymously in judgment of the driver, but as for myself, I can't count on BOTH hands how many times it could just as easily have been me when I was younger. I thank God that I survived and I'm even more thankful that I didn't kill anyone else. I wouldn't wish the horror that the driver and the families of these kids must be living with on the least of my enemies. Again, if we were all honest about it, it could have just as easily been almost any one of us at one time or another. Use this opportunity to have a conversation with your kids about "recreational drinking" (let alone driving afterward) and to rethink the examples you are setting for them.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 5, 2008 at 05:38 PM
I agree with the person who wrote "Food for thought" Well said and everyone needs to read what you wrote. Were all to blame for the choices that are made. Either we have done them, or seen someone do them and yet everyone can point a finger but never at themselves. I feel for all families involved here. they all are hurting. and bad choices were made. I've made them, and i thank god everyday that i'm still here living my life.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo
on Sep 5, 2008 at 04:42 PM
To the person who wrote "FOOD FOR THOUGHT" Powerful statement!! I love what you wrote. Made me think about my own past choices or the choices my kids could make. I think everyone could learn from that! God Bless all the families of Mike, Shawn, and David! Our prayers are with all of you!
Posted by: Sally
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 5, 2008 at 03:10 PM
As long as he has limited to no record he will serve 1 year in jail and then be on probation. Heck the lady that drove here from New York to have sexual intercourse with a 15 year old boy only received 7 months in jail and probation. Who is worse the guy that unintentionaly killed 2 people that choose to get in the car with their drunk friend or the women that was sober and drove to WI to have sex with a 15 year old?????
Posted by: brandie
Location: es
on Sep 5, 2008 at 03:09 PM
RIP Shawn and Mike. You two will always be remembered and loved. David- You are an amazing person, every single person who knows you is here for you, everday. I Love You!
Posted by: Food for Thought
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 5, 2008 at 02:30 PM
"He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone..." NOBODY wins in a tragedy like this one and I'd be willing to bet it could have just as easily been almost ANY of us. The culture of this state is entrenched in the overindulgence of alcohol beyond belief, so it's almost impossible to believe that every one of us is free of guilt, myself included, such that we should sit in judgment of anyone in this situation. If we all took a moment to think to our pasts and are HONEST with ourselves, nearly every one of us could recall a situation in which it could just as easily have been ANY ONE OF US. Stop bashing kids that can't take back their poor choices that night, and instead pray for them and their families. Pray that SOMEBODY has learned a valuable lesson from this nightmare and will choose NOT to drink and drive in the future. THEN say a prayer of thanks for having been spared every one of those times that YOU made the same poor choices and lived through it.
Posted by: b
on Sep 5, 2008 at 02:17 PM
RIP shawn.. you will be missed..Mike.. god speed.. i will see you again someday.. Love ya guys..
Posted by: Mike
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 5, 2008 at 02:10 PM
An eternity in jail would not be good, but those people who think "he has received punishment enough already" need to get their head on straight. People feel emotions, but the law doesn't. And as for sentencing him to eternity in jail, that is left to the judge not the jury. The jury finds whether he is guilty of a crime, the judge deals out the sentence.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Sep 5, 2008 at 01:12 PM
Yes, I would like to serve on the jury and help determine his future. You may be surprised that I don't want him to spend eternity in jail. I'm not even sure jail time would help. He helped determine his friends futures when he got behind the wheel that night. Unintentionally, but he did. I have served on jury duty before and don't always side with the victim. Now he has two deaths to live with. I hope there are many kids who have learned something from this.
Posted by: Osseo Graduate 2007
Location: Osseo, Wisconsin
on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:44 PM
The last sentence is supposed to say, “Everyone commenting or reporting on this accident needs to be less careless.” but when I originally wrote this sentence it was longer. Due to a limit on characters allowed per posting, I had to rewrite it. I am sorry anonymous if you found the missing word annoying. However, I believe you missed the point of my entire comment. Hopefully you will not be on the jury because you are making judgments without knowing all the facts. How can anyone say they would love to be on a jury when they are determining the future of another person? Though, maybe if you knew more information your attitude and opinion would change. Consequences will occur, but allow a jury /judge to decide.
Posted by: anonymous
Location: WI
on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:46 PM
I feel badly for all the parties involved. Everyone feels badly for David, but just think if one of those other boys would have been driving and killed David! Than what? I am really suprised that all three didn't die, looking at that picture! The good Lord was truely with David that day, and maybe has some sort of purpose for his life. I think he does need some sort of punishment. Hopefully God gives the judge knowledge and hope in this situation, peace to all, and God bless.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:35 PM
every poor action has consequences obviously but it doesnt always have to involve TONS of legal action. dont you think that david has had the consequence of waking up every day and thinkin about it. i understand he will have to live up and take what they give him like a man but sitting on here just bashing him does absolutely nothing. oo and wow big deal...some people spell things wrong here and there i think there are bigger things to worry about then grammer on this page at a time like this. get over it.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:15 AM
I would love to be on that jury. Nobody believes that David doesn't feel bad. If he didn't feel bad, there would be something wrong. BUT, he can't just get a "poor boy" pat on the back and nothing more. Yes, accidents happen (unfortunately), but if there was an illegal act that caused it, that act needs consequences beyond his feelings. If Shawn had been driving and killed David, it would be the same. As a driver, you need to be responsible. As for spelling/grammer, the majority of comments have been very poorly written. Where did you all go to school? 2007 graduate - what is your last sentence supposed to be?
Posted by: me
Location: there
on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:55 PM
David, i don't know if you will ever see this but I am so sorry for YOUR loss too...find happiness again someday...that's what your boyz would want!
Posted by: Anonymous
on Sep 3, 2008 at 08:49 PM
everyone keeps going on and on with the comments about blaming david..yeah lets all just blame him..thats a good idea..that will bring mike back. i mean GET REAL. IT WAS AN ACCIDENT. yes this is a situation to learn from im not saying its not but doesnt anyone think that david is going through enough... i mena the kid was mikes FRIEND they hung out all the time...if anyone knew him it was david he wouldnt go out and do that just to do it. i pray for shawn and i pray for the families lets hope no one has to hear anything like this in the future but everything does happen for a reason. live for now. im sure mike would want his friend to stop hurting but david has a long ways to go before he can go on even a little bit like himself. -live for today-
Posted by: Osseo Graduate 2007
Location: Osseo, Wisconsin
on Sep 3, 2008 at 05:43 PM
After learning a classmate was gone I sat down and thought this cannot be real, there was no way Mike who had so much personality was gone. Mike was a guy who cared deeply about his friends, and would never want people who knew nothing about him and his boys making cruel, unforgiving, inconsiderate comments about a tragic accident that took his life. Anyone who knew Mike, David, or Shawn would know they would never purposefully harm each other, they considered each other brothers. Yes mistakes were made the night Mike left us, but David wasn’t the only one to make them. He was driving and now lives with the pain and regrets of that night, so anyone who is unintelligent enough to say he deserves ruthless sentencing needs to rethink there own character. Yes, consequences will result, but a judge or jury will decide, not individuals who know nothing more than the media reported about a tragic accident. Everyone commenting or reporting on this accident needs to less careless.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: osseo
on Sep 3, 2008 at 02:40 PM
I agree with the last comment about the spelling used in some of these comments!! It drives me crazy!! I'm glad I'm not the only one that noticed:)
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 3, 2008 at 12:56 PM
People who are making the rude and stupid comments, should just shut up!! you have no idea what happened. Keep your dumb comments to yourself because they are not helping anyone, especially not the friends and family of shawn, mike, and david. We should be praying for shawn, and remembering mike. Not blaming anyone because it is not one persons fault.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 3, 2008 at 12:22 PM
I am very upset reading many of these negative comments. It sickens me to see how many people are quick to judge and want to play God. Since the majority of people are doing this, I would like to make a judgement myself. If you are unable to spell or form complete sentences, I believe you aren't very bright and should keep your idiotic thoughts to yourself. Thank you!!
Posted by: Lynn
Location: Eau Claire
on Sep 2, 2008 at 07:41 PM
It saddens my heart every time I hear one of these stories. I too lost someone, a niece in a car accident where she and 2 of her girlfriends had been drinking. 17-18 year olds with their whole lives ahead of them. Everyone was in shock and grief stricken. The sad part is, that it happens over and over and over. We as adults in our communities need to take some of the responsibility for the culture here in WI. What family, community or sporting event can you remember going to when there wasn't alcohol present? It's the message we keep sending our children. Don't drink alcohol you could get hurt but then the message they get out in the community, on TV, radio, magazines, the newspapers and from us as parents (role modeling the behavior) is that it's ok. Give our kids achance. Start early. Talk often, set rules, boundaries, guidelines, have consequences and stick to them. Be consistent in the message that alcohol is NEVER ok for a young person. If it saves one life it's worth it!
Posted by: B
Location: EC
on Sep 1, 2008 at 08:50 PM
I agree with C.B. The attitude of the "friends" is terrible. This cannot be overlooked just because everyone involved feels bad. There are laws for a reason. If breaking the laws doesn't result in a punishment, why do we have laws at all? Sara, what do you parents think? What about Mike's? If this was one of my kids, I don't think I would be so forgiving. Hopefully I'm not ever faced with this type of situation. My heart goes out to the parents of all 3 boys. I can't imagine the pain all of them are in.
Posted by: Andrew Sandelier
on Sep 1, 2008 at 07:23 PM
Everyone commenting on this story just needs to support David, support mikes family...And pray for shawn, his family and all of their friends...Stop critcizing please...And those of you saying alcohol was a factor just stop!!! You dont even know...
Posted by: C.B.
Location: E.C
on Sep 1, 2008 at 06:17 AM
I'm sure David and Mike were great friends...and yes all three of the young-adults in the car are partially responsible, but that does not negate the fact that David was the Driver, who was driving after drinking, driving at an extremely excessive rate of speed, and "Jumping Hills". David needs to be held responsible, and punishment needs to be served, regardless of how close of a friend Mike was, or how "sad" David feels. What troubles me the most is the attitude that people take too driving after drinking. I don't care if you're underage, 17 or 77, Alcohol is fine, as long as your not driving a car! We should have absolute sobriety laws for everyone while driving a motorized vehicle, so people don't think, "Oh', I've only had a few...I'm safe to drive..." If you drink then either Walk, take a taxi, or call someone for a ride.... sounds like all three of these young-adults had plenty of friends and I'm sure they all have cellphones, so they should have called someone sober for a ride.
Posted by: Andrew Sandelier
on Aug 31, 2008 at 10:46 PM
o wow hey real soldier arent you supposed to be the ones sticking together and making sure our country stays safe??? And you are trying to call out one of your own becuase he makes a mistake...Wow man you should not even be a soldier if you are going to say something like that....i think this is the most disrespectful comment i have seen yet...Whoever runs these comments you need to delete all of these and take the commment option off of this story...
Posted by: Sara LOESCHER
Location: Florida
on Aug 31, 2008 at 06:32 PM
My name is Sara and I am Shawns older sister. I may never be able to see him again due to this horrible accident. Am I pointing fingers NO I just wish all 3 of them would have thought before they got i n that car!!My prayers go out to all family and friends involved in this!! May GOD be with my brother keeping him strong so he can over come this!! I LOVE YOU SHAWN HANG IN THERE!! WE ARE ALL HER FOR YOU!!
Posted by: freind
Location: osseo
on Aug 31, 2008 at 03:35 PM
driving is a spmething you earn, as a driver always take responsibility in any situation. I wish mike's Mom and Dad my deepest sympathy cant' imagine their lost of their only son.
Posted by: bck
Location: wisconsin
on Aug 31, 2008 at 12:43 AM
mike and david were good friends. this isnt all davids fault, they all had somewhere to be in the morning so they had to go home. people jumped hills all the time, it just happened whend david was driving. mike was family, and david was good friends with mike and he wouldnt want everyone hating david. rip mike. i miss you and love you dearly. and david and shawn hand in there.
Posted by: REAL SOLDIER
Location: WI
on Aug 30, 2008 at 10:30 PM
David should see ALOT of jail time. I don't care if "he feels bad" about it or not. He was dumb and now has to pay for it. It is people like him that give ALL of us soldier BAD names. Wait maybe he should be sent to Iraq for all of his sentence, hopefully no less than 25 years. This way the soldiers who ARE NOT being dumb don't have to get killed. THERE WAS ALCOHOL IN HIS BLOOD WHICH IMPAIRED HIS DRIVING ABILITY THEREFORE DRINKING AND DRIVING! Whatever way you look at it, it is still a DUI case as well as UNDER AGE! MAKE THE PUNISHMENT FIT THE CRIME!!
Posted by: cody kowalczyk
Location: ec
on Aug 30, 2008 at 04:28 PM
prayin for you shawn, your my boy
Posted by: Pete
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 30, 2008 at 09:30 AM
So tragic and yet so avoidable. I talked to my son about this and as most of the kids responding was defensive until a family member was put into the equaision. Here are the facts: Mikes family will never spend another holiday as a family and never enjoy a birthday the same again. All three made terrible choices to ride with someone who was drinking but only one person made the tragic decision that killed Mike and put Shawn into a hospital in critical condition. He has ruined so many lives with his poor decisions he chose to make that night. Why do most of you kids support and defend David, What about Mike and Shawn and there families that are paying for David's decision to drink and be totally reckless with others lives in his hands! You guys claim you know everything then why dont you have designated drivers? We cant stop you from drinking, we have tried but atleast make some smart choices. If not you will end up paying as David will. He has to live with killing his friend and jail.
Posted by: a mom
Location: eau claire
on Aug 30, 2008 at 07:24 AM
My heart goes out to the families of all invovled. This is a tragic ACCIDENT!! Nothing more. David you are doing your sentence already. Beets get better soon. Mike, you will be missed by a lot of people. I believe when "they" say the good ones go first. I only hope your dearest friends and family will see this as an eye opener to what exactly stupidness comes from driving recklessly with innocent passengers and bystanders with no choice from someone elses actions!
Posted by: Scott
Location: Foster City
on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:51 PM
Isaiah 5:22 also verses 11 & 12. Praying for all involved.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo
on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:47 PM
Just want to post this one again... I think it is an important message! I just want to send out my prayers to ALL involved in this tragedy. And David if your seeing these... know that all your friends are here for you!! You are not alone. Please don't forget that!! You are a good person and those who know you haven't forgotten that!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Keena
Location: EC
on Aug 29, 2008 at 07:28 PM
David if you are reading these, dont listen to the negative ones... your friends are here for you and that is the only thing that matters. Just remember that everything happens for a reason and sometimes it's not the stuff we'd like or planned to happen... We all love you and hang in there david. RIP Mike, you were a great friend and we will all miss you so much. Shawn- you're in my prayers, everything will turn out alright.. i love all three of you guys!!! <3
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 29, 2008 at 04:32 PM
To stop drinking an hour before driving doesn't help if you've had enough to put you at or above the limit. He may have only been "at the limit", but at 17, you aren't supposed to be drinking at all. Nobody is arguing the fact that he killed his best friend and feels terrible about it. I'm sure he does. Anybody would. Also, driving at 100 mph is also illegal even if you haven't been drinking. So, put aside the drinking factor and you still have a problem at hand. Any time a person drinks, drive, speeds, eats behind the wheel, uses a cell phone, puts on make-up, something bad can happen. This needs to be a learning experience. David needs to be telling all of his other friends from that party not to do something stupid like that. If that was me, I'd never touch another drop of alcohol again. I don't think I could live with myself.
Posted by: Sue
Location: Fall Creek
on Aug 29, 2008 at 03:09 PM
I feel terrible about your loss, Patrick, but the above article does say that David is being charged with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. Do you think a sober person would make a decision to hill jump? I don't.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Durand
on Aug 29, 2008 at 02:10 PM
A sad story, my thoughts and prayers go out to all involved. Don't be to quick to point fingers. Being only 21 myself, I was taught not to drink and drive and the effects that they can have. I was also taught not to get in a car with someone that has been drinking. It could have been anyone of the 3 driving the car. Did the other 2 involved ever refuse to get in the car? Ask the driver to slow down? Demand to get out of the car?
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Wisconsin
on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:51 PM
This is a horrific time for all people involved. Please remember that emotions are high, and that David needs support from his community. It could have been someone else driving, unfortunately it was David. This is something that he will never forget, something that I am sure that he see over and over every time that he opens his eyes, and when he tries to sleep I am sure that he feels so guilty that it makes him physically ill. The table could have been easily turned and David could have died. Remember this, and turn anger and frustration into action. I am in EMS and I have seen my fair share of accidents caused by alcohol, but also by cell phones, innattentiveness, or being stupid. I am just encouraging everyone to use their feelings now to make changes. Start programs for the teenagers, realize what they are going through. Don't alienate them, we all went through the teenage years, and we all made mistakes. We were lucky to have made it through, now lets help these kids.
Posted by: fran
Location: osseo
on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:45 PM
has it been reported yet as to how David got ahold of alchol? From past experience with my children attending Osseo High School I was appalled to hear about parents letting their children drink. Many have the opinion, "as long as they are doing it in my home they are safer." baloney, as adults we need to get serious about this. I am not saying that a parent gave David his alchol but as parents we have to start a collective attitude that all underage drinking is not allowed! Or more young lives will be lost.
Posted by: Patrick
Location: ec
on Aug 29, 2008 at 01:11 PM
FACTS- DAVID stopped drinking OVER an hour before. I was with him i know. The POLICE have said this is NOT A CASE OF DRINKING AND DRIVING but a case of HILL JUMPING. A lot of you people keep saying he was drunk and blame it on the alcohol but you need to get your facts right. IT WAS NOT THE FACT THEY WERE DRINKING THAT MADE THE ACCIDENT OCCUR it was that they hill jumped. They had planned earlier to go out to the hills and speed jump it was not a sudden idea. You can say what ever you want about my friends but unless you know them, know what happened, don't make judgment calls. I lost one friend another is in critical i dont need to loose a third because society blames him and forces him to never forgive himself. I dont blame david, i dont blame alcohol, i blame no one. Why does someone have to be blamed all the time? blame the road for being hilly then. I miss mike dearly and shawn and david too
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:49 AM
A few years back, a few kids skipped school, had NOT been drinking, went jumping hills at a high speed and killed a nurse on her way to work. Were they punished? Yes. Should they have been? Yes. Should David? Yes, just like anyone should in that situation. Tragic? Yes. A punishable crime? Yes. I wouldn't be holding my head high. Would you?
Posted by: Mike
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 29, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Ali and Padg, hold your head high for what? This is tragic, no doubt. But let me ask you this question. Let's say your parents were driving the other way on that road that evening. David's "hill jump" landed on your parents vehicle and both them and your two little sisters were killed. Would you still be telling David to "hold your head high"?
Posted by: Ali and Padg
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 08:59 PM
i know all three boys personally and i am disgusted by these comments. no matter what david did, how everything ended up is a consequence in itself. he will never be able to look any of his friends or family in the eye and express the emotional, physical and psychological pain he has to deal with. right now i just hope everyone can come together in this time of tradgey and be there for shawn and remember mike as the amazing good hearted person that he was. were praying for you beats. mike we love you...you will never be forgotten, and david hold your head high.
Posted by: <3
Location: EC
on Aug 28, 2008 at 08:19 PM
Miss you tons Mike... You're all I'm praying for Shawn... I got your back David... Love you boys...
Posted by: A FRIEND
Location: OSSEO
on Aug 28, 2008 at 06:41 PM
A PERSON TAKES RESPONSIBILITIES WHEN DRIVING. THE SCHOOL HAS A PROM NIGHT REINACTION OF WHAT MAY HAPPEN WHEN DRIVING DRUNK. THERE IS NEVER A DRY EYE IN THE CROWD OF THESE KIDS DURING THIS TIME. ADULTS CAN PREACH AND PREACH TO THESE KIDS NOT TO DRIVE DRUNK OR EVEN GET INTO THE CAR WITH SOMEONE WHO HAS BEEN DRINKING. PLEASE YOU YOUNG PEOPLE THINK BEFORE THIS ALL HAPPENS YOU DON'T WANT SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT, SOMEONE YOU HAVE HUNG OUT WITH FOR YEARS, TAKE CARE OF EACH OTHER THINK BEFORE THIS ALL HAPPENS OVER AGAIN TO MIKE'S FAMILY: VERY PROUND OF YOUR SON FOR JOINING THE GUARDS AND FIGHTING FOR WHAT HE BELIEVED IN YOU SHOULD BE VERY PROUD OF HIM. WE ARE GLAD WE GOT TO KNOW HIM WITH HIS GREAT SMILE AND HIS GREAT HUMOR HE WAS ALWAYS READY FOR A SMILE AND A HI. ONE GREAT KID! I WANT TO WISH MIKE'S FAMILY REASURRANCE THAT GOD'S LOVE IS ALWAYS THERE.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo
on Aug 28, 2008 at 03:06 PM
This is to the person who said "David is just a child, give him a break..." I'm pretty sure he was participating in adult activites that night. I have no doubt he is going through hell, but it's awfully hard for me to feel sorry for him when I think he easily could have killed innocent people in another vehicle. If children want to do adult things, then I'm sorry, but they need to face adult consequences. I just hope the only good thing that can come out of this does - that at least 1 person vows to never drive drunk, and doesn't.
Posted by: sad
Location: eau claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 02:08 PM
Jail will not be of service to anyone involved with this. He should have to sit in jail on the birthday of his friend and the anniversay of the death of his friend. For the next 25 years. He should also do talks to young people about the effects of dinking and driving.
Posted by: Jo
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 01:52 PM
First let me say that I am truely sorry these families are dealing with this very sad situation, and they are ALL in my prayers. Secondly,I hope that everyone that is up in arms over this situation will think and act to see that there are harsher penalties for those who are stupid enough to be picked up more than once for driving under the influence. After the first time, they should have to get counseling for substance abuse. If they get picked up again...they should lose the vehicle they were driving and receive jail time. To often these people get picked up more than once. It seems that the laws usually are not strict enough to have people learn their lesson. I do not feel that David should get off too easy because he did cause a death... but I feel that given his age and that he WILL live with this for the rest of his life that he should also be given counseling not just the possibility of a jail sentence. Jail alone will not help anyone change!
Posted by: TA
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:09 AM
I don't believe anyone accused David of "not owning up to the fact that he killed Mike". I believe what they are trying to say is he will need to suffer the consequences of what has happened. With any poor choice a person makes there are consequences. It is too bad for all families that are involved that the consequences for all three youngsters will be huge. All three had a choice that night. All three made a poor choice -- period. Now is the time to heal. Being the mother of children Mike and David's age, I can only count my blessings that that I have instilled enough "scare" into my children that they'll think twice about driving drunk (or after one drink), riding with someone who has been drinking or even drinking. My thoughts and prayers are with all three families. With God's grace Mike with find peace in heaven, Shawn will find the strength to heal, and David will find forgiveness not only with the family of these other boys and the public, but from within.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: osseo
on Aug 28, 2008 at 10:40 AM
do kids not learn that drinking and driving is dumb. i bet some of mikes and davids friends were drinking the next night this all happened. i think who ever came david alcohol should serve just has long has david does..and yes i tihnk david should be put in jail for this no matter how old he is he still knew what he was doing even tho he was drunk and i know for a facted when i use to drank i remembed the big things and i know driving 100 is a big thing so all of you other kids sayin david dont need time he does..but yet he still needs love.
Posted by: Someones Mom
Location: Osseo
on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:40 AM
Another family left to grieve, another family left to sit a vigil over an injured loved one. One person whose life path, choices, and direction changed forever. I believe as part of David's sentence, that prison may not be appropriate for him, but he should have to talk to other students and share this experience with them. Maybe one life would be spared from this...
Posted by: Frustrated
on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:23 AM
HE may admit he did wrong, but it's the majority of you people that sound like it should just be swept under the rug and forgotten about. That can't happen. How many of you felt the may who hit the little boy that was sliding last year should be behind bars? I bet all of you. He was driving drunk and also had a tragic, misfortunate accident. Just because it's someone you know doesn't mean it should be let go. Accidents do happen, but this one was avoidable.
Posted by: Whitney
on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:11 AM
I have met both Mike, and Shawn (Beats) a few of my girlfriends were very close with these guys, and I wish I had been also. They were both really nice and seemed to be easy going guys when I met them. I am sorry to hear what happened, it shocked me on the news last night to see the pictures of the crash scene and the car after the fact. I know friends of my own drink and drive all the time, underage and 21 , and it's not good!! Some people just don't care to hear that they should'nt drive, when you tell them that. I tell my close friends and family call me and I will come get you, don't risk it. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the people that drove to Rochester to see Shawn Tuesday and with all the boys family and friends. I feel David's pain after reading the heartless comments from people, don't pick on him because he was the driver, they all knew the "what if" of the situation, and made the choice. Micah hang in there, I don't know you but I can't imagine how you feel!
Posted by: Sarah
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:07 AM
First I would like to say that my thoughts are with ALL of the families, they have all been hurt by the events Monday evening. Honestly, this accident is a tragedy that could have been prevented. Do I think that this boy got into the car thinking he was going to kill his friend and seriously injure another? No, of course not. The unfortunate reality is, that is exactly what happened. To say that he is not at fault here would be wrong; he chose to get into the car after drinking, he chose to exceed the speed limit, he chose to "jump" hills--those were not accidents. To the comment about maybe only having one beer or even 1/2 beer--being "under the influence" can be ANY amount of alcohol. We all make mistakes, that's what it means to be human, but some of us pay a very heavy price for those mistakes. David will have to live with this for the rest of his life, but at least he has a life--Mike does not.
Posted by: Mike
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:01 AM
Why? If people would stop posting saying "this isn't David's fault", I would stop posting saying "then whose is it?".... And why can we only say good things and wishes for the family on a site like this?
Posted by: Why?
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 28, 2008 at 07:51 AM
Why is everyone saying that David isn't owning up to the fact that he killed Mike? As far as I can remember and from what I have heard in the news...he AMITTED to driving after drinking, and admitted to speeding. So...how can you say that he is saying "it isn't his fault"? If that were the case then why did he admit to drinking and driving or speeding? He knows...I think all of you negative comment posters just need to grow up and realized that this could have happened to ANYONE! All 3 of those boys knew what they were doing when they got in that car that night. It is not JUST David's fault. Maybe you should all put yourself in his shoes..how would you feel if you were him? Or his family? Come on now guys, seriously, grow up. NOBODY is a perfect driver...EVER! I don't care who you are, how long you have had your license, if you drive sober, or if you choose to drive drunk whether or not you are 17 or 30...the fact of the matter is..it could happen to ANYONE! No matter what!
Posted by: A Mom
on Aug 28, 2008 at 07:39 AM
In retaliation for my earlier comment, yes he needs punishment for the laws he broke, just like anyone should be. He: 1) was drinking underage (last I checked, the drinking age is not 17); 2) was driving while intoxicated (doesn't matter how old you are - it's illegal); 3) was driving 90-100 mph (show me a sign that has a 100 limit anywhere around here); 4) reckless driving (goes hand-in-hand with 90-100 mph). He needs to be held accountable for that. Yes, we feel sorry for him that he has to live the rest of his life dealing with this, but you can't erase the laws that were broken that night. Would you think differently if someone hadn't died? Instead of having a drink for Mike, talk to just one teen and tell them that this CAN happen to you with a few drinks. Driving drunk is irresponsible. I can only imagine his pain at having killed a friend. They were all irresponsible that night, but he needs to step up and take responsibility for his actions.
Posted by: :annoymous
on Aug 28, 2008 at 01:02 AM
David is just a child He made a mistake and has to spend the rest of his life with everything that happened on monday on his mind every second of every day. Give him a break, we all make mistakes, but we get lucky and they don't result in tragedies like this one. My prayers are to all of the families involved. Stop "bashing" him, It's not going to change the fact of what had already happened.
Posted by: Student
on Aug 28, 2008 at 12:14 AM
Alright people. I think there has been enough finger pointing and blame being shared. If you have some kind of thought or prayer to go out to the families, write it on here. If not, just hold it back and keep it to yourself because sitting here posting comments that point fingers and directly blame people is NOT going to make this better at all. Do you think Mike wants people sitting on weau.com posting comments like these? Probably not. The only thing that is going to make this situation better is time. Thats all there is to it. Go ahead and blame who you want but keep it to yourself. Thanks
Posted by: a
Location: friend
on Aug 27, 2008 at 11:59 PM
everyone stop fighting about this. mike is dead and shawn is in the hospital...david is dealing with so much right now and he doesnt need people telling him over and over its his fault...he knows what happened..we all need to pull thru for all these families that are dealing with this tragedy...hope to see everyone at the wake and funeral this weekend..rip mike
Posted by: Justin Studebaker
Location: Chincoteague, Virginia
on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:39 PM
In best regards, i was real good friends with him when i lived in osseo. he is the most respected man and best wishes for the famil... and as far as david i really know you too all the memories everyone had together. but please just hang in there its hard i can just imagine but you will get through it. IN best regards Justin Cole Studebaker my heart will be there for everyone.. GOD BLESS YOU ALL. if u want to talk about it and i will give anyone the best wishes and everything.. justincolestudebaker@hotmail.com or 757-894-9355
Posted by: Mike
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:43 PM
OK, I give up. If "it's not David's fault that Mike died" then whose is it? And yes Andrew, I have done similar dumb things in the past, and I thank God every day that I was never in David's position. If I was in David's position I don't see how I could honestly say that it was not my fault. He was the one in control, he was the driver. When you get behind the wheel of a car, you assume responsibility. That responsibility is not removed because "we've all done dumb things." If I hop in my car and drive 80 mph down I-94 and I lose control of my car and I kill someone, I am responsible. It is my fault. What those of you who know these kids need to do is put yourself in our shoes. You need to look at this objectively. I am not judging David, but the district attorney and country judge certainly will, and if he does not plead guilty, I am sure a jury of his peers will. This is a tragedy and my heart goes out to the families, but David has one thing his buddy doesn't -- life.
Posted by: Sasha D
on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:27 PM
I honestly got sick reading some of the comments that people had left on here. Instead of encourging words people come on here to say negative things. What people don't understand is that any of the three guys could have been driving that night. It just happened to be David that night and he'll have to live with that forever. And for some of you people that is apparently not enough. My close friend passed away in 8th grade. With all the negative attitudes people are portraying. I think instead they should pray for the 3 family's and hope that Shawn can pull through.
Posted by: kyle
Location: Fairchild
on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:55 PM
If david were a true freind, he would take responsibility for what he did, you all should take notice to the fact that he has killed somone. If he pleads guilty instead of exploiting loopholes to get out of it, he would be an honorable person.
Posted by: kyle
Location: Fairchild
on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:49 PM
It was not just an accident, David knew exactly what he was doing when he decided to get drunk, only he in this situation had the control over what he was doing. This is clearly a drunk driving crash that the drunk driver lived and one of the passengers didn't, he killed his freind. To think that our school had a mock car crash last year to try and prevent this kind of thing, but no. In my eyes David should be charged and sentanced to prison, not a good feeling to have but the law is the law.
Posted by: Andrew Sandelier
on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:33 PM
I was good friends with David Shawn and Mike...What half of these comments are saying is crazy...How can you try and blame david for this whole thing? You know he would trade spots with shawn and mike...They are two of his good friends..Put your self in that position? Tell me you have not done something dumb before?? I can bet almost everyone who has commented on this bored knows this could have been them at one time...The fact is they all screwed up and it turned into a tragedy...But right now people need to support David...Pray for Shawn...And give their best to Mike and his family...
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Tremp Co
on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:31 PM
Driving under the influence happens all the time. I know that many people leave bars and parties without a sober driver. It is not David's fault that Mike died. This accident is a different story, speeding and alcohol are not a good mix...I lost one of my best friends almost 6 years ago this same way, I learned but I know many others continued on the same way shortly after the accident. I hope that more people learn from this accident and change their views on driving under the influence. I knew Mike from bowling on an occasional Wednesday night and I knew David better. I wish their families and David himself didn't have to deal with this. I pray for all the families and friends involved in this accident, because that is just what it is, an accident.
Posted by: Kyle
Location: Fairchild
on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:14 PM
I just heard this morning while listening to the radio, I never had much of a freindship with either of the people, but when I heard my eyes actually started tearing. It is tragic and I'm sure in time will remind everyone of the dangers that alchohol and lack of common sense can have. I'm not going to sugarcoat it, this is a real problem with young people today that must be dealt with before more young lives are lost. As a former classmate of David I could honestly say that I'm not surprised by this incident. But I will respect everyone invilved in this and say that my prayers and thoughts are with them, my brother Chris just found out also.
Posted by: Mike
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 04:44 PM
To the "anonymous" person below who wrote: "He's an amazing person and I'm someone very close to him. Nobody, that matters at least, is mad at him in any way. All of his friends are supportive and nobody blames him." No one is mad at him? No one blames him? My God, what kind of a world do we live in. I am ashamed of all of you who spout this kind of stuff. He was the person driving, he was one of the people drinking, if not for him doing those things that other teenager would be alive today. You all make it sound like a meteor fell out of the sky, hit the car and that is what cause it to crash. You're right, I am not close to him. But, if this where my son or daughter I would be mad as heck at them. There is a difference between being supportive and mad. A difference between understanding and indifferent. A difference between an accident and a homicide. Thank goodness the police and district attorney do not subscribe to that philosophy.
Posted by: SadMom
Location: Mondovi
on Aug 27, 2008 at 04:24 PM
Thank you. Finally someone with understanding and compassion. It is human to make mistakes and poor judgment calls. To A Mom-what type of punishment do you see fit? Is jail really the answer. Do you not think this young man has been punished enough by his own actions. He is still a child. Put yourself in the shoes of this boys parents. Would you still feel he deserves additional punishment? If so you might want to rethink why you become a parent. Get your heads out of the sand people. This could have happened to almost anyone of us. We were just lucky. I would do anything in my power to stop my children from drinking and driving but the fact is I can not. No one can. We have to let them learn from their own mistakes. Unfortunately these 3 young men learned very costly lessons. You can't just blame one of them. They all made conscious however clouded judgment calls. THINK-before you speak!!!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Chippewa Falls
on Aug 27, 2008 at 03:56 PM
I don't know any of the members involved in this horrible accident, but my prayers are with all of their families. I was just reading the comments on here, and I never seen any blood/alcohol test results in the story, so how can some people be writing remarks like "because David was DRUNK." I'm not saying this is the case, but maybe he only had one beer, or a half of one, but right away everyone condemns alcohol. There are also comments about being underage. I know teenagers that are much more responsible than grown adults who are "a legal age" to drink. It appears the accident happened because of speed, and if there is anyone out there who has a driver's license and has never taken a risk by speeding or doing something foolish, I would like to hear from them. If people are quick to judge and unable to put themselves in Everyones' shoes that were involved, they should be ashamed of themselves. Also, know that Judgement Day will come for everyone, so be careful what you do and say.
Posted by: anonymous
Location: osseo
on Aug 27, 2008 at 03:28 PM
To the family and friends that this tragic event has affected, I am sorry and you all are in my prayers.It is completly horrific and terribly sad. I didnt know any of these boys personally but my heart goes out to everyone of them. In my opinion there should be no talk about "what if" or "Im just glad there wasnt an innocent family on the road to pay for the kids mistakes" etc.... None of that matters now. Whats done is done. Nobody in the world is perfect thats a fact. I am not a bad person and I am pretty responisble but I will tell you I have mad plenty of mistakes in my life that were dumb and couldve turned tragic. People have there own opinion I understand that and thats fine but come on now grow up. Everybody makes mistakes and poor choices I dont care who you are and nobody means for anything like this to happen. I just hope people can start supporting the family and friends that are involved and have been affected by this instead of judging so much.
Posted by: A Mom
on Aug 27, 2008 at 03:26 PM
As a mom, and a former teen many years ago, drinking and driving happens all too often. One thing with kids is that they don't look ahead to what could happen - they believe nothing will happen to them. I thought that way too. Most of us grow out of it, fortunately. From the looks of their records, none of them were squeaky clean. This could have happened a year ago. David should be thankful that it wasn't an innocent family he killed. He was with friends, apparently having a good time. It would be nice if we lived in a perfect world where bad things never happen, but we don't. Hopefully even one person will learn from this and make a difference in their own life. David will be living with this forever. This will change his life in many ways. He should be punished for his actions, but still needs the love and support of his friends and family.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 27, 2008 at 03:09 PM
BLAH...BLAH...BLAH... FACTS ARE FACTS REGARDLESS OF WHAT KIND OF A PERSON EACH ONE IS OR WAS. THEY ALL GOT INTO THE CAR. THEY ALL MADE THEIR OWN DECISIONS. END OF STORY
Posted by: Sasha D
Location: Eau Claire, WI
on Aug 27, 2008 at 02:58 PM
I feel pity and sadness for people who come on here to bash David. He's living with killing one of his closest friends. Is that not hard enough? And for the parents saying that your kids don't drink and drive, think again. Honestly talk with them about what they really do during the summer and on weekends. Kids drink ALL the time. And who are some of these parents to judge him who I bet HAVE NEVER met him. And to say things because he is underages that its a bigger deal? Why are the people who get caught drunk driving not made a bigger deal. You never see it on the news when someone gets pulled over for a DUI. Its probably just because the cops had caught them before they injured them self or someone else. Instead of everyone saying negative things about David, talk to your kids about drinking and driving instead of wasting time on here for people who are severely concerned for the three in the accident.
Posted by: SadMom
Location: Mondovi
on Aug 27, 2008 at 02:29 PM
I would like to plead with all of you to show compassion for David.As the mother of a child involved in a drunk driving accident(fortunately no one was killed but there was a passenger injured)I would like to tell you that David and his family are in hell.David can't undo what has happened.What he can do is learn from this tragic mistake.Who are we to judge him?Maybe he has made other bad judgement calls but that doesn't make him a bad kid. He needs the support, love and protection of all those around him.He is still a child.He needs us as adults to show him kindness and forgiveness.He will never forget what his choices cost him-the life of his best friend.He will suffer all his life emotionally and the legal ramifications will follow him as well.What will jail teach him?What would Michael want?This was not intentional.It was an accident.The only difference between David and most of us is we didn't get caught.My prayers are with David and his family as well as the other families.
Posted by: anonymous
Location: eau claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 02:28 PM
My prayers are with everyone single one of the boys as well as their families. Shawn was my roomate and you couldn't ask for a better friend. As for David and Mike, I considered them roomies as well, they were there more than me at times. For all those with negative comments, do you feel better?? Do you feel more like a 'man' or 'woman?' They screwed up, yeah WE ALL know. If you knew them, David would trade places with either Mike or Shawn. He would go back if he could, but we know he cannot. He has more than he can deal with in losing a friend and injuring another. Why continue to bash him, can't you reach deep down somewhere and find a prayer for them. Not just David, but Mike and his family and Shawn and his. They would change the past if possible and make a wiser decision, but it's too late. Let's just pray for all those affected and hope Shawn makes it, R.I.P. Mike, you were a great person, and David, don't worry, you know who will support you. God Bless all affected.
Posted by: A Friend
Location: ...
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:42 PM
I used to party with all of these guys out at the Pavilion. I really don't understand why a lot of the other kids are talking about going and having a drink for Mike.. I mean, all of the people who party out there drink and drive, we all know it. I just hope that everyone starts to learn from this.. David is no more guilty than all of the rest of us who have done it, but it's still not right. Mike lost his life and David pretty much lost his too.. Please don't go out and make the same mistake, guys. Honestly.. It's time for all of us to take more responsibility and stop letting our friends drive drunk.
Posted by: sad
Location: eau claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:37 PM
I have always told my kids..don't drink and drive and don't drink and ride w/anyone who has been drinking. Call home and we will get you, no matter how old you are. I feel so sad for all the families involved in this. There are no words to express how sad it is to see all the young kids that have passed away in the last month. Enjoy what you have now because you never will know when it is time to say good bye.
Posted by: anon
Location: ec
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:33 PM
I think I saw in the story that more charges might be coming, but I'm sure the sheriff's department is still trying to figure out exactly where they were before the crash, what they were doing, stuff like that. This is a really sad and unfortunate thing that happened. I just hope that kids and adults both learn that if you're gonna party and drink, just hand over the keys to someone who isn't drinking. It's just not worth the risk, whether you're driving one mile or sixty miles, just let someone else who is sober drive you.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:26 PM
I hope the David Finally learns his lesson. He has been stopped for things before and just gets a slap on the wrist. Why is it that when something like this, it happens 3 time or more then they relize they need to do something about it. Or the parents go and get him out of jail right away. How can someone live knowing that he killed his best friend. They need to charge him, plus they need to find out where the party was and get that person for buying the alcohol. Plus the cops need to drive the back roads more. My prayers are with Mike and His family, and Shawn and his family. And to David... I hope that you have learned
Posted by: Parent
Location: Chippewa Falls
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:07 PM
All three of those young boys are hurt. Some more than others! I know lots of people are commenting "easily"....But that might be YOU one day. Dealing with a child making that awful decision to drive after drinking. So before you judge someone or make comments. Remember that might be your child one day or even your grandchild!!!!!!!!!!! May God Bless all Families Involved!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Anonymous
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:58 PM
What about the issue of "Hill Jumping" that probably was the main cause of the accident. I have a friend who's son was in a bad accident in the same area due to "Hill Jumping" and no alcohol was involved. He survived after brain surgery, and no one else in the car was killed, but what do we need to do educate our people on the dangers of this fun?
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: chippewa valley
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:52 PM
A real bad day for all three familys.. but it was 3yes 0,no on that night. whats done is done. what i dont get is ? why the gov gets all over big tobaco, law suites taxed an taxed it till its almost gone.lots of studies how bad it is for you etc. but the gov does very little to the alcohol busness, bet it the studies were truly known how much alcohol kills kids parents, and abuse. never known 5 or 6 smokes in a night to killyou... but a sixer of beer sure will.. ban alcohol now
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:43 PM
No matter what David is charged with he still has to live with this for the rest of his life. That alone is more punishment than anybody could handle. He's an amazing person and I'm someone very close to him. Nobody, that matters at least, is mad at him in any way. All of his friends are supportive and nobody blames him. I love and respect every person who has left a thoughtful and considering comment on here. As for the ones who weren't so nice and tried making this into a "bash david" site, you obviously don't know much about him nor do you matter.
Posted by: Samocop
Location: Menomonie
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:32 PM
I am just curious, will there be charges filed against the 23 year old passenger? Was he the one who purchased the alcohol for the underage teens?
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Anonymous, you are acting like underage kids never drink because your kids dont. Well its not a perfect world and all the poepl in that car that night made a poor choice, not jsut DAVID. Both of whom I went to school with and Mike I graduated with. Mike and the other boy should have known not to ride with him that night and David knew better than to drive. If you dont understand, underage people will drink, its jsut going to happen whether its legal or not. This would be the same if it were a person over 21. Its illegal both ways but we are going to put him down more because he was underage. That sounds foolish. How many people do you think leave a bar on a given night and get a sober driver. I would assume VERY VERY FEW! Although what happened I dont condone I cant excape the fact we why people want to put all the blame on david. yes he will get credit for this accident and live the rest of his life knowing he killed one of his best freinds and severly hurt another.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo Wisconsin
on Aug 27, 2008 at 11:34 AM
I like how the comment "WAKE UP KIDS" is said. If it were a 22 year old would this still be the issue? I think not. I know people who are 50 and still do this! And the statement "has it really been worth it now that you've lost a friend?", the memories are something I would NEVER change. David just happened to be the chosen one this time.. he has good head on his shoulders just like Mike did. And parents can WARN "kids" about this kind of stuff... its ineveitable. Also the comments about how this drinking was "illegal". So is not wearing your seat belt and I can GUARANTEE that the people posting this stuff has forgotten to put that on. The matter of this issue right now is that David is a strong kid and he has PLENTY of people standing behind him in that one. Keep your head up guys.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: hickory road ec
on Aug 27, 2008 at 10:49 AM
we were in bed and heard the crash. within 2 min. david was pounding on the door. he was bleeding and hurt but his only concern was his friends. the sherif was on seen within 3 min. looks like david was air born off the top of the hill and had turned the wheel slightly before he came down. when the car landed on the road, it shot into the ditch before david could react. it was over in seconds. just wanted family and friends to know what happened.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: O-F
on Aug 27, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Fingers should not be pointed at any one person as they were all old enough to make the decision to get in the car. However, if you are old enough to drink (whether it be legally or illegally), you must be old enough to take responsiblity for your actions. Was it David's intention for a friend and passanger to die and another to be severly injured? Of course not, but the fact of the matter is one did die and one is severly injured. Now each of them must suffer the consiquence of their actions. One is dead. One is severly injured. One should serve a sentace. We all have the opportunity to learn from others mistakes, so why didnt any of them? This goes to show that as much as we need to support David, he needs take responsibility for his actions. We all know if we kill someone what could happen, it doesnt matter if they are a friend or stranger. The whole ordeal could have been avoided and we can only hope this will scare others into avoiding the same situation. Pray for the 3 families.
Posted by: dre
Location: eau claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:34 AM
ok, this comment is in reference to the last post by 'anon' at 831am. these behaviors are OK for college students and teens. i find it hard to believe that college students are just gonna sit around and not drink, are you kidding me? the driving after drinking is what the issue is here, not the drinking. and thats why education about the subject is so heavily enforced, to preclude these types of things from happening. there are so many adults who drink and drive as well, so dont just assume age is a factor. i think we need to do something about our drunk driving laws. i think that the penalties for .08-.15 should be much less severe than than the latter. because honestly, how many accidents have you heard of where the driver was only .08? not very common, all the .08 does is ruin good peoples lives by having a dui for the rest of their life. i digress. so lets pray for the families of all three guys. i wish i knew mike a little better than i did, but he knew who i was. r.i.p.
Posted by: Someones Mom
Location: Osseo
on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:28 AM
Why is everyone softening what happened. Calling it an "accident", a "poor choice", a "mistake". No one is perfect, no one does everything right, but for some, their shame becomes public. I guess the only positive thing to be said is at least they only hurt themselves and didn't crash into a whole innocent family and kill them. Who knows, maybe this will actually straighten out those who lived through it...and save some innocent family in the future.
Posted by: anonymous
Location: cf
on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Sorry to hear of this horrible accident. As a parent myself, it makes me very thankful that I have the opportunity to teach my kids about drinking and driving. Unfortunatly not all parents have done the same. Hopefully others will make sure their kids don't make the same choices that these kids did.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo
on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:58 AM
This comment is for the comment regarding public acceptance about teen drinking. That is NOT what everyone one is saying about David. We don't think what happen is OK because "everyone does it." You don't know him so you can't judge... and you would probably think differently if you knew him or this was your son or daughter who was driving. You can say what you want but until you walk in someone else's shoes or are close enough to know the people involved you really don't have a clue... you just have your hard core opinions... and thats it. Try seeing it from the inside... makes it a little harder to just point fingers and persecute just the driver when all the boys had a choice to make that night. NOT JUST DAVID! He IS a good person and you don't know him... don't judge a person if you don't know them!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:31 AM
What makes me so sad is to read the continuous comments on here that seem to imply the behaviors leading up to the accident are OK because "everyone does it". No they don't! WAKE UP KIDS! This is YOUR chance to be the change. One of your friends is DEAD and the other will pay for it for the rest of his life. THIS is the stuff we try to warn you about at mock accidents, in school, everywhere. THIS is the stuff you think will never happen to you. Think of all the "fun" you've had over the years. Has it really all been worth it now that you've lost a friend? The public acceptance of teen drinking needs to change and until that happens, tragedies will continue. I just thank God that there wasn't an innocent family on the road that night to pay for these boys' mistakes. Please people, take a good hard look at yourselves and see what YOU can do to help turn this situation around.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Osseo
on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:27 AM
I just want to send out my prayers to all involved in this tragedy. And David if your seeing these... know that all your friends are here for you!! You are not alone. Please don't forget that!! You are a good person and those who know you haven't forgotten that!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Mike
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:00 AM
Patrick, I believe the police will be looking to speak with you if you were with these kids before this tragic accident. Someone said "so they were drinking, who cares". Who care? I do it is illegal!!! Anyone who provided the alcohol to these minors is just as responsible as the driver himself. It doesn't matter if it is a bar, a liquor store, a convenience store, his uncle joe, or Patrick. These kids got themselves some alcohol and thought they were immortal. Unfortunately they found out they were not. Someone else asked "have you ever drank alcohol, been at a bar?" Yes, and I have made stupid choices too and I thank God everyday that they did not lead to these types of tragic consequences. However, I have learned my lesson and try to instill that in my children.
Posted by: Amanda
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 07:13 AM
I think that everyone that is saying negative things about the driver of the car is just looking for someone to blame. They need someone to point a finger at and say "He did it...", and who better than David? But, they need to keep in mind that he didn't purposely drive his car off the hill and into trees to kill a friend and hurt another. It was an ACCIDENT. Yes, it could have been prevented, but all of the boys that were in that car probably knew better than to be driving, or riding in that car. When you people that post negative things on here about David, please keep in mind that his family and friends read this and that they have feeling just as you do. So, anything that could be taken offensively should probably just stay in your head. You are entitled to your opinion, but if you know that it could hurt or offend someone, just be courteous and don't put it on here. The boys are all at fault here, not just David. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the families and friends.
Posted by: Alicia
Location: NE Ohio
on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:53 AM
My heart goes out to all the families involoved in this HORRIBLE HORRIBLE, though avoidable accident. Shawn is my cousin and we are all so saddened by everything that has happened.. Please keep our families and the others in your thoughts and prayers!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 02:42 AM
If we don't blame David, then we as a society would make it seem like its ok to drink underage and drive impaired. It can't be helped that his "friends" were not sober enough to tell them not to jump the hills when David was drunk. It's good to know that they will admit to being at the party, but not take on the responsiblity of stopping him. And yes, don't make this issue about underage drinking, you'll only upset all the underage drinkers who will forget about this story in a few months and start drinking again with their friends. Hopefully he'll learn to appreciate life a little bit more now that he has some time to think about what he's done. You may not respect what i'm saying but at least respect your own life and the lives of others.
Posted by: ...
Location: ...
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:46 AM
it's just to bad how alchohol can effect so many peoples lives, and people never realize how bad it is and what it really does to you and how it really effects you...people should really stop pointing fingers and think about it. My prayers go out to David, Mike, and Shawn, and their familys.
Posted by: Micha
Location: Eau-claire
on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:10 AM
mike is my brother. i am really close with all of them. mike, shawn, and david. they all made the chose to get into the car that night. i think i would know what happened, i am family. so there is no pointing fingers anywhere. mike is in our prayers, shawn, you hang in there. were all here for you. you will make it. i love you. and david, i am praying for you and i hope the best for you! i love you big bro!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:06 AM
my prayers go out to david, michael, shawn, and the families and friends. david hang in there because everyone makes mistakes and everyone has or will make one just like david but they wont reach such an impact. david was not the only one who made a mistake that night. the person who got them alcohol also did. my prayers go out to micha i know this has got to be hard for you but hang in there your a great girl and a loving sister that michael knew he was lucky to have. and as for michael well.."in the end, it's not the years in your life that count, it's the life in your years" and i know he had a very good life. i distantly know all that were involved. people need to support david and i definitly do.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:01 AM
yes this is a sad time for all,sometimes we as individuals make decisions that become tragic.Finger pointing at the the driver of this vehicle will not restore life loss or aid in any recovery of any victoms involved in crash.I feel that maybe a prayer and simple gathering of family and friends is a good place to start.The Lord will do his part as will the court system will also,God Bless all involved in their loss of loved ones.
Posted by: A. Friend
Location: Osseo-Fairchild, WI
on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:27 PM
My prayers go out to all the families involved in this tragic incident. We, as parents, see this type of accident on television, and only pray that it never happens to our children. David and Mike are friends of my two teenage sons, and played sports and shared daily activities together. I've read some of the other comments, and tend to agree that it was a choice of all three young men to be in this car on Monday evening. Unfortunately, David was the driver, thus, responsible for operating the vehicle and feeling shamed for doing so. As parents, we can't be so naive to think that our teenage children don't drink. Yes, we hope they don't drink and especially drive while doing so. I explain to my children that if you partake in alcohol or are asked to ride with someone that has, it's okay to call home and ask mom or dad to come and get you, even if it's 4 in the morning. Please pray for David as he faces his tribulations pertaining to this tragic event.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: durand
on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:08 PM
david would never hurt any one he should not be charged for mikes death it was a accident they were the best of friends its just gonna tear on david more if people tell him its his fault that mike died
Posted by: patrick
Location: ec
on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:53 PM
thank you everyone who is saying POSITIVE and GOOD things about mike shawn and DAVID. I lost 1 friend and another may never walk again. We dont need to loose a third too. David has been hit harder than ANYONE and i mean ANYONE. He is a great kid and they were going to go jump the hills that night they planned it so even sober it was dangerous. Please stop pointing at david here, it is no more his fault than anyone else's.
Posted by: crissy
Location: altoona
on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:26 PM
I guess I'm just glad that this kid did not kill some innocent person driving the other direction. If you choose to drink and drive, stop thinking of yourself for once and think about all the other people on the road you could kill...personal accountability.
Posted by: nate
Location: wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:25 PM
enough with the negative comments about david. Everyone nows that it was a really bad choice but no one is perfect. More than 50 percent of underagers who drink will drive that same night. if you know david you know he is sorry and would take back this mistake. he has to live sith this for the rest of his life, that should be punishment enough. my prayers go out to mike, david, and shawn.
Posted by: Matt
Location: Minneapolis
on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:23 PM
The man is obviously making an example of this kid after the petition by college presidents to reopen discussion of the drinking age. It's an attempt to deamonize underage drinking and driving and discredit this discussion. Make an example of the kid and ruin his life more than his mistake already has.
Posted by: unknown
Location: osseo
on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:20 PM
I go to school with David, I would not hurt any of his friends. Yeah he made a mistake but don't point the fingers at him. That isn't right to do. He didn't mean to crash the car yes he was driving under the influence and driving stupid he never would do that to his best friend. We won't ever get about you mike!
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:12 PM
What are we teaching our kids when a 17 year old is posting that 90% of the teens she knows get drunk and have driven drunk? It seems to me that they don't realize the severity of the consequences of drinking and driving. It's sad that this poor child had to learn the hard way, and at the expense of his friend. So sad and so preventable.
Posted by: Jess
Location: Eleva
on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:19 PM
Let's stop placing the blame and think about these poor kids and their families, all 3 kids. Their previous 'records' do not make this any less of a tragedy. I also hardly believe that those of you making comments about these boys have never made mistakes. I for one will be thinking of and praying for their families in the coming days instead of wasting time thinking of who is at fault.
Posted by: K
Location: Osseo
on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:02 PM
I dont know how to start but when they got in that car they did not know what was about to happen... it was an honest mistake he did not get in that car and crash it perpiousely.... That car crash did not chenge 1 THING about how they are! My prayers are with all who are included in this horrible accident.
Posted by: anonymouse
Location: trempealeau
on Aug 26, 2008 at 08:59 PM
Its sad, people are now saying there gonna have a drink for Mike but isnt that what killed him. This should be an awaking for people to realize that getting drunk no matter what age isnt worth it. These kids have been caught before but never got in serous trouble. This is what happens. If it would of been strict or got in trouble before maybe they wouldnt have gotten drunk and maybe they would still be here. Why cant people see this is a sign, Stop getting drunk , its not worth it, is a couple of beers worth your best friend or family member, or even a strangers life? This is very sad that two kids lifes are over due to this. My heart gose out to all that is effected by this.
Posted by: L.
Location: EC, WI
on Aug 26, 2008 at 08:41 PM
Okay.. first of all.. my prayers go out to Mike, Shawn, and YES David and their families. Honestly i don't think anyone should blame anyone. We all know that he was underage and drinking, but i probably can guarantee that no one was telling David to slow down or not to get in the car. NO ONE made Mike or Shawn get in the car. I don't think anyone is to blame. Honestly people, you need to stop pointing fingers. I think that David will have harder punishment than anyone can give him when he has to live everyday knowing what he did... I just think that people need to obviously pray for Mike and Shawn, but PLEASE pray for David too... Remember NO ONE forced anyone to do anything. They didn't have to get in that car that night. My Prayers are with you... Mike, Shawn, DAVID, and families/friends. p.s. I am a friend. I feel terrible and i hope that David knows that i am here for him. Mike-- You will be missed by every 1. RIP Shawn--I hope everything goes well for you. Get well SOON
Posted by: A
Location: Humbird
on Aug 26, 2008 at 08:35 PM
I used to party with David & Mike a lot.. It's terrible just to blame David because I'm sure the weekend before Mike was driving.. Yeah David was driving but he didn't make Mike get into the car with him. The guilt is more than enough punishment for him, that's something no sentence could ever do.
Posted by: patrick
Location: ec
on Aug 26, 2008 at 08:20 PM
actually they were great kids and they did not act invincible it was just how they had fun aka drinking and being routy. you had to know them to understand.
Posted by: Sasha D
Location: Eau Claire, WI
on Aug 26, 2008 at 07:53 PM
For all the people "bashing" on David obviously don't know him. And saying things negatively about him will not bring Mike back. He made a mistake and himself and many other people will learn from this. Any parents that have made comments about David should really realize that there kids have probably driven drunk. I'm 17 and 90% of the people I know drink or have before and I gaurentee that all of them have either driven under the influence or have gotten into the car with someone who has. David just happened to get caught. So don't sit here and say negative things about him like your kids have never done it because I bet you they have. I wish nothing but the best for David, Mike and Shawn and there family's and Mike you'll always be remembered.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 07:17 PM
David has to live with this mistake every day for the rest of his life, I don't think he needs anymore fingers pointed at him. He needs love instead of hate. Of course I feel so sorry for the families who have lost their son, cousin, brother, or whatever. This was a terrible accident.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 26, 2008 at 07:16 PM
It sucks for all but all we can do is live and learn. Mike was among many of National guard soldiers and we all will miss our brother. As for David, poor choice. Although the blame will fall on David. I blame all that were there and said or did nothin to prevent it. My heart goes out to all the families.
Posted by: Lisa B.
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 07:05 PM
I can't beleive we are having to bury another one of our babies. We always say, we hope other kids learn from this sad, sad tragedy. But they don't. Because it keeps happening over and over again. My son and step-son are friends with these boys and it has hit them both hard. I agree with who ever said to hold the people who bought the alcohol for these kids and then let them get into a car, are the ones that should be charged with the death of Micheal and Shawn being in the hospital. But most of all for making David serve a LIFE sentance before he even goes to court. My heart goes out to all your families and most of all to David. Keep your head stright and please don't take this all on by yourself. Talk to anyone and everyone that will listen. I know for a fact, it is better to talk about things then it is to hold them in. just remember you have alot of friends here and they will always be your friends if they were truley your friends befor this. Remember God forgives those who ask.
Posted by: Kat
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 06:33 PM
OK folks seriously..Everyone seems so blind about this story. Everyone want to just point the fingure at David. One of my thoughts of many are why don't I hear people blaming Mike and Shawn for making just as bad of a choice as David did. I learned in school not to drink and drive, but I also learned not to get in the car with someone that is impaired. Mike and Shawn made that choice on their own and they paid for it, just like David will pay for his. The biggest problem is not drinking and driving, the problem is that society is blind when it comes to our children and what they really need.....LOVE... And that is what David needs right now. I hope for peace for everyone involved.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 26, 2008 at 06:12 PM
I didnt know David but Mike was a good friend. Im sorry for Mike & his family. Shawn i love you & please get better soon! I will help you through this!
Posted by: unknown
Location: EAU CLAIRE, WI
on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:18 PM
why is the issue about underage drinking? He could have been 21 and it could've happend. honestly who cares he is underage?! The fact is 1 of our friends is dead and the other in critical condition, and our other friends life is changed for the rest of his life! I'm not asking to have sympathy for him, but stop making the issue UNDERAGE DRINKING!
Posted by: anonymous
Location: Trempealeau County
on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:14 PM
Unfortunatley if you look up these kids records, you will find this wasn't the first time either of them made poor choices. It's so sad that it takes a tragedy to hopefully make them see the light. I know who these kids are and I know they always seemed to think they were invincible. Unfortunately, they weren't. Hopefully their friends and others will learn from the tragedy.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:08 PM
I guess it goes to show that Wisconsin needs to create stronger laws for drinking. Think about it for a second, was this the FIRST time the driver has run into drinking problems? NOPE. Wisconsin needs to make the punishment more severe instead of waiting until a life has been taken!
Posted by: Kelly
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:00 PM
The person providing the alcohol to the underage kids needs to be held responsible also. Charge them with homocide, maybe it will get other to think before they provide alcohol to underage people.
Posted by: Wendy
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:52 PM
What a tragedy!! This accident has and will affect many families. Pointing a finger at David at this time will not bring Mike back or make Shawn better any quicker, as a matter of fact I think he would probably change places with either of them if he could have a "do over" and not have to live the rest of his life with the fact of what he has done and is responsible for. David is a good young man who made a wrong choice at a great expense. I for one have spoke with my children again about the consequences of drinking and driving, I can only pray they listen so that people aren't judging them someday or worse yet be the parent who receives that late night phone call that we all dread. I pray for the families of Michael, Shawn, David and yes David himself.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:51 PM
david was an amazing person who would have never purposely put his friends in danger. It's a tragedy that such a young life has been lost, but it's also a tragedy that David will have to live his whole life knowing that he was the one that crashed the car. My sympathy goes out to all the families, Davids as well as Mikes.
Posted by: patrick
Location: eau claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:31 PM
Did you people never drink or what? Never have gone to a bar? I would hope that you could still have a sense of sympathy for david. You obviously did not know him, he was not a bad person. ALCOHOL affects the brain, not just your reactions but reasoning too. He got in an accident because he was doing what many people do, abusing a car, but had he been sober, the same thing may of happened. Don't hate a kid because he made a bad decision, no one was telling him to slow down.
Posted by: Patrick
Location: eau claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:24 PM
I was with david and Mike and other "underaged teens" before they got in the accident last night and you people have to remember what its like to BE underage. College kids drink, teens drink, and just like PEOPLE WHO ARE 21, sometimes they make the bad decision to drive. No one here supports drinking and driving but I support david. He needs support because his life is changed forever. If you knew Mike and David and Shawn you understand. David lost his best friend he doesnt need to loose everyone else. He will have to deal with the law thats that. Mike was a great friend and i miss him very much. He will forever remind me of summer and all the fun we had. Shawn get better buddy we miss you, your a tough guy you'll be ok. SO we see what can happen when we drink and drive, now lets make the responsibe decision. The issue IS NOT whether your 21 its whether you've been drinking. Mike i'll remember you forever.
Posted by: Anonymous
on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:10 PM
He should feel terrible! If he wasn't drinking it would be a whole different story and there would be understanding and sympathy for him but HE decided to risk his and others lives when at a whole 17 years old, HE GOT BEHIND THE WHEEL DRUNK! The other two also made a bad choice when they got into the car with him but ultimately HE WAS THE IRRESPONSIBLE DRIVER!!!
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: TREMPEALEAU CO
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:43 PM
An unfortunate choice that ALL of these kids made. God willing, all who hear about this tragedy will learn something from it and make better choices in their lives!
Posted by: ????????
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:43 PM
He should feel terrible. He chose to drink and drive and someone is dead because of it. If someone wouldn't have died do you think that he would have felt guilty about driving drunk? I doubt it.
Posted by: Anonymous
Location: EC Wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Who served this kid alcohol to begin with? When will people learn? Now someone is dead, you should have thought about what you were doing before you got behind the wheel! You had no business drinking to begin with. I feel for the family and I'm sorry.
Posted by: Kathy
Location: Eau Claire
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:26 PM
People have to remember everyone makes mistakes. David is a good kid who was at one time on the right path. He made one bad mistake, but that doesn't mean HE isn't effected by his actions, these other two guys were his friends he did not hurt them on purpose. He will have to live with himself everyday knowing that he killed one of his own friends. My heart goes out to all the families, including David's and I hope that everyone will be able to forgive him someday. Just remember their is a reason why David wasn't killed in this accident, too. One day we will all understand that reason.
Posted by: CS
Location: Wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:26 PM
Unfortunately it's too late to change anything. Many lives have been FOREVER changed and hopefully in a positive way eventually-time will heal. My sympathy to all involved and try to forgive, understand, accept and most of all comfort each other through this terrible time.
Posted by: unknown
Location: wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:23 PM
I dont know, it sucks that it happend this way, all of his friends & family will miss him. People can't just blame the driver either though. Hopefully this will make some of our friends who drink and drive and know mike, will think and learn from this.
Posted by: jamie
Location: osseo
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:11 PM
for all i care he ccan go to jail for life what is his problem how many people does it take be fro people lean jnot to drink and drive when some one close to them die i hope he feals bad now
Posted by: b
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:05 PM
Michael was an awesome kid. He was a dedicated soldier. He was an excellent student. Michael, you will forever be in our hearts, and always in our prayers.
Posted by: unknown
Location: wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:03 PM
I'm sorry, but actually he will know, you don't know him and he feels terrible about it.
Posted by: Lee
Location: Sawyer CO
on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Many never learn but their folks, friends and family do at the funerals after the fact. Or at the hospital or that visit from the police. It's a sad deal at 17 or 70, its in the news every day. Common factor often sited, no seat belts, speeding and alcohol. Each incident is a sad and sorry one not only for those involved and their family's but even for those of us who read about it.
Posted by: PEN
Location: Eau Claire, Wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:15 PM
Mike was a very good kid, and an amazing and brave soldier, he will be missed. I was proud to be his friend. How can we stop drunk driving without our friends dying first?
Posted by: JLR
Location: Wisconsin
on Aug 26, 2008 at 12:58 PM
He's also not allowed to have alcohol, be in bars or taverns and has a 10 p.m. curfew. He wasn't suppose to do this in the first place - HE'S UNDERAGE - think it'll stop him now? When will these KIDS learn? |
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Ashley: You need to know that people are there to support you. Do not worry about what other people are saying....You need to focus on yourself and your family dealing with the healing process. Ignore them....especially when they did not know Mike as much as they thought they did. Take care.
This is to "not happy" that is awful you would write that to Ashley about her family...Michael loved his family, and everyone knows that. He loved his friends as well, but his family has known him all his life and that is a bond that we can't touch! I also know that mike talked about his nephew, sisters and parents quite a bit to me...so you need to back off! I know that mike is very angry that you said that...you need to back off it really is none of your business. Besides if you are going to run your mouth and be disrespectful don't be a "coward" who are ya?
Daivd's a coward... Hiding behind a couch when the cops come in seriously... Micha's a great sister she did the right thing and Michael's family WILL do everything we can to get some sort of penalty for David... I just hope he will eventually learn his lesson and realize that drinking killed his friends! I actually felt a little sorry for david but now his total lack of self preservation and respect is sooo not there... Grow Up kid it will do you some good
first off ashley MIchael had hardly any relationship with his family and YOU KNOW IT so quit living a lie
yes i will fess up and say yes i was not happy with david about a month ago... i told many people that .. but i do also recall micha being on davids side in the begining and not blaming him at first either.. i went to davids house with her.... but this is such a controversial issue that a lot of peoples minds change... just because i am friends with david doesnt mean i dont care about mike and beats and hate what happened to them... god has a reason for everything i believe even though we may never find out what it maybe... so if fingers need to be pointed at me that is fine but no matter what people think i am behind david..
This is for N. How can you be so childish? "He didn't force them in the car"? How ever DAVID'S actions STILL took TWO lives!! It doesn't matter if he had a gun to their heads and forced them in the car. His actions still killed them.
You really need to think about what you are saying before you post it. When you say that we need to put ourselves in David's shoes, thats a really awful place to be and no one that was close to Michael especially (us)his family owe David anything. David is so upset now about all this and wishes he could trade places, well it's too late for that now isn't it??? Also it really disturbs me that "megan" you would write all that about you are sorry for the family but David is your friend and you are here for him...and i recall you about a month ago sitting at my parents table saying how much you hated him and that he deserved to go to jail...so before you go saying things that may hurt others you need to make up your mind where you stand, cause my family and I are not afraid to say where we stand. We miss Michael very much and like it or not people, we are going to fight for his rights.
this is for Kendra dont give up on david he loves you alot and he needs you to
i love david hes a nice boy and the fact that david is still just a kid 17 but althought yes this is mainly davids fult that he did drink and drove we dont know what went on between the 3 boy that night maybe they wanted david to drive and we will never know it was all there choises to get in that car and i know that the others are in heven praying for david and hoping the best. as being a person that knows a lot of the same people that david did and being old friends w him that over half the people that goes out would deal w the pain the same way david did DAVID we love you i love you and i pray for you and the other familys bc we the loved Shawn and Michael the same
Alright Kendra, wake up and smell the roses. 2 people are dead and everything kept saying "This will stop david from drinking. He's going to do better and learn from this" Then everyone sits and feels sorry for him cause he sat in his room all day feeling sorry for himself knowing he would trade places with mike and shawn." David is not going to ever learn. Just to get that through everyones head. He has broken rule after rule and there is no end in sight. And besides, what makes someone who has killed two people, think they can go out and drink MORE!? David deserves to go to jail with a maximum sentence. Even if he doesnt learn, it will get him from running free as a bird where he could endanger more people. Micha had every right to call it in. She just might have saved more people. To people that WANT to help david, people at the party should have called him in and not sweep it under the carpet. Prayers are with Mike and Shawns families. I love you micha! You are in right!
what we need to put into consideration is what David is going through.. none of us can even begin or try to relate to imagine the thoughts that go through his mind every second of everyday... he lost two brothers that day not two best friends... i knew the relationship between those three and they always had one anothers backs no matter what it was. I even recall Mike calling Davids mom "ma" we all make bad decisions at some point in our lives, but david has to live with this for the rest of his life and would put himself in either one of those boys shoes anyday... your in my thoughts everyday David, stay strong
to real soldier yes he did get in accident and yes his 2 best friends died but he did not force them in the car.
Thank God Micha got David off the road again. Better he sit in jail not killing my kids than out there driving drunk again. And if any of you were Davids real friends, you wouldn't be supporting his drinking. And growing up in Wisconsin does not mean that all there is to do is drink. Doesn't anyone hunt, fish, bowl, bike, walk, swim, skate, skate-board, run, paint, read...shame on those of you too feeble-minded to find an activity other than alcohol.
To DAVIDS FRIEND, you don;'t get the point of this do you? He drank underage, correct? Then he drove drunk, correct? The results of that is 2 people dead, correct? THEN HE TURNS AROUND A COUPLE WEEKS LATER AND DRINKS UNDERAGE AGAIN! What would have stopped him from driving drunk AGAIN? What would have stopped him from getting in ANOTHER accident that could have taken MORE lives? No one is saying that punishing David more will bring anyone back. However, you would think that he would have a little more common sense. David deserves a severe punishment. Not even 2 months after a ACCIDENT (yes I said ACCIDENT) that cost 2 lives happened, He is right back out there underage drinking AGAIN! WHY? Hiatt family, you did the right thing by calling in the party. You have ALL of my respect for it.
I love David very much and i have never turned my back on him no matter what he has done. My deepest sympathy goes out to micha and her family. However,just like none of us know what Mikes family is going through, none of us know what David is going through either. I would wake up from texts at 3AM almost every morning from David saying he would do anything, absolutly ANYTHING, to see his boys one more time and to be in their shoes. Obviously, Im going to stick right next to david through everything, but that doesnt mean i don't miss Mike every day and pray for his family, including Micha. Mike would call laura, davids mom, "ma". David and i would make plans to go to a movie or just be together and 90% of the time i would get a call from either David or Mike saying "Nah, sorry Ken, David's goina be with his brother tonight" (meaning Mike.) I'm begging everybody, please, pray for David. Please, just pray for him that he finds strength. Please.