I realize that there are members here that have commented that they believe there is nothing wrong with the media reporting that 'alcohol was being investigated'. I personally disagree. You should ask yourself just what does it take to besmirch someone's character. I'm not saying that police do not have a right to investigate whether or not alcohol was a factor. They should. But when a news agency reports that the use of alcohol is being investigated it implies that there is a reason to do so that is not common to all accidents. It draws suspicion from a public that would not otherwise have reason to suspect it. It is akin to an allegation.
Consider a scenario where a child falls and bruises his or her knee. If the news media was to report that child abuse on the part of the parents was being considered, how many friends and neighbors would view (possibly permanently) those parents negatively. How many would ostracize them? Is the quality of their character not damaged? Would you - as a neighbor continue to allow your children to go over to that household? I'm not opposed to the investigation but I feel the reporting is at the very least irresponsible. No retraction? No further reporting that clarifies that alcohol was NOT a factor? I hope that none of you are put in a position similar to that.
