These are always tragedies but in this case, I knew of both these boys. I am a reserve deputy with Desoto County Sheriffs and knew of Robert, a damn good kid that everyone liked. The other Daniel lived just down the street from us and is one year older than my son. He was a good kid also, star athlete in local high school and was never in any real trouble; good grades, likable and popular with both students and teachers. In fact football coach said to my son that Dan was the absolute last kid he would have ever thought would be in any type of this situation, damn good kid and lead every team prayer. He was very active in Young Life all through high school.
He got to college, got in a fraternity and was introduced to the "party school" for which Ole Miss has become known for. After being pulled over, he would not turn off the ignition, Robert reached in to grab the keys and Daniel floored the car. Robert fell back and hit his head on the pavement. That was it, just a simple fall and with his head unprotected, severe head injury and died. (Those of you that do not wear helmets, please make note of this). One damn second of massive stupidity and life is over for them.
Anyway, one boys dead and the other's life ruined, not to mention both families and all their friends. It is so damn sad.