Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Mercy Academy organized a simulation on March 12 to educate students about the consequences of drunk driving. The event aimed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and awareness to make safe decisions regarding alcohol and drug use, according to an announcement from the school.

The demonstration took place in the school parking lot and was conducted by Louisville Metro Police and Louisville Fire. Students participated as actors in a reenactment of a fatal crash, which included elements such as a field sobriety test, an arrest for drunk driving, and the arrival of a distraught parent. First responders brought an ambulance, a gurney, and a body bag for the "victim."

After the simulation, Theresa Martinez, whose daughter was killed by a drunk driver, spoke to the students. Senior student Caroline Cronen described the event as an "eye-opening experience … that will forever be ingrained in my memory." She added that "the demonstration will impact us for the rest of our lives and will continue to keep us cautious on and off the roads."

This event was part of Mercy Academy's "Peer Leader Week," which is dedicated to educating students about the risks associated with drugs and alcohol.