In the blurry aftermath of a night in Moers, Lower Rhine, a car accident left a 14-year-old fighting for his life. According to initial reports, the vehicle swerved off the road, struck two trees, and disintegrated into shards.
Emergency services, notified via a smartphone's emergency call function, discovered the wreckage and found the critically injured teenager inside. He was swiftly transferred to the hospital, his life hanging precariously in the balance.
Among the car's debris, empty bottles of alcoholic beverages were found. The preliminary examination suggested that the 17-year-old, believed to be behind the wheel, was under the influence.
Close to the accident site, officers came upon an 18-year-old, bloodstained but unscathed. He was a passenger in the vehicle involved in the crash. Subsequent investigations led the officers to two slightly wounded 17 and 18-year-olds in a hospital, who were soon released following treatment.
Initially on the run, the suspected driver was apprehended at his parents' home in Kamp-Lintfort later in the day. Authorities are still probing how this seemingly uninjured teenager obtained the vehicle and was involved in the accident. He has been charged with negligent physical harm and driving without a license.
Police and public prosecutors took to the press with sobering statements, reminding the Moers community of the importance of responsible road safety.
Fascinating Facts:
- In Germany, the legal drinking age is 18, and underage drinking can result in hefty fines and imprisonment.
- Since 2011, German law has mandated a breathalyzer test for drunk driving suspects. Refusal increases the penalty.
- More than half of all fatal road accidents in Germany stem from alcohol consumption.
The incident illustrates the devastating consequences that can follow from irresponsible and intoxicated driving. It also highlights the role of a smartphone in facilitating quick emergency response.
