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Lessons to Learn
In remembrance of the tragic death of BSC student , Jackie Nilsson, in October 2005.
Issue date: 10/18/07 Section: Opinion
This Sunday Oct. 21, 2007, will mark the second anniversary of the death of a Bridgewater State College student at the hands of another BSC student. Jackie Nilsson, a BSC junior at the time, was killed after being struck by a car driven by, then first year student, Lisa O'Connell. Lisa O'Connell was driving under the influence after consuming alcohol earlier that evening. Jackie Nilsson, Jackie Coleman, another BSC junior, and Stephen Bickerton, a friend and student at Mass. Maritime Academy, were leaving a local bar at the 2 a.m. closing time. The car, driven by Lisa O'Connell, struck the three individuals slightly injuring Jackie Coleman, seriously injuring Stephen Bickerton and killing Jackie Nilsson. Lisa O'Connell's blood alcohol level was described in newspaper accounts as, "11 times the legal limit for someone her age, high enough to make the average-sized adult black out."
From investigative reports it appeared that Lisa O'Connell, 19 years old at the time, was given alcohol illegally and consumed enough to be severely intoxicated. Reports indicated that others were aware of her intoxicated state and some actions were taken to prevent her from driving. Somehow not enough precautions were taken and her subsequent driving under the influence resulted in the tragic accident. Lisa O'Connell was charged and convicted of vehicular homicide and sentenced to a two-year jail term. Many current students do not know about the events of two years ago and recent behavior indicates that the lessons learned in the past may not be impacting current students.
A review of this year's police logs shows an increasing trend of incapacitated persons being placed in protective custody or transported to the hospital for care. Underage drinking, recklessness due to excessive drinking, and driving under the influence are illegal and potentially dangerous behaviors. Those affected by the events of Oct. 21, 2005 have suffered the consequences of poor decisions regarding alcohol consumption and managing intoxicated behavior. Perhaps their experience can guide the decisions of current students. It is important for students to monitor their alcohol-related behavior, and that of the people around them, to help keep all students safe. Tragedies such as the untimely death of Jackie Nilsson can be prevented by responsible behavior of students and their friends.
Tony Esposito, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Bridgewater State College
From investigative reports it appeared that Lisa O'Connell, 19 years old at the time, was given alcohol illegally and consumed enough to be severely intoxicated. Reports indicated that others were aware of her intoxicated state and some actions were taken to prevent her from driving. Somehow not enough precautions were taken and her subsequent driving under the influence resulted in the tragic accident. Lisa O'Connell was charged and convicted of vehicular homicide and sentenced to a two-year jail term. Many current students do not know about the events of two years ago and recent behavior indicates that the lessons learned in the past may not be impacting current students.
A review of this year's police logs shows an increasing trend of incapacitated persons being placed in protective custody or transported to the hospital for care. Underage drinking, recklessness due to excessive drinking, and driving under the influence are illegal and potentially dangerous behaviors. Those affected by the events of Oct. 21, 2005 have suffered the consequences of poor decisions regarding alcohol consumption and managing intoxicated behavior. Perhaps their experience can guide the decisions of current students. It is important for students to monitor their alcohol-related behavior, and that of the people around them, to help keep all students safe. Tragedies such as the untimely death of Jackie Nilsson can be prevented by responsible behavior of students and their friends.
Tony Esposito, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Bridgewater State College
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
jhayesboh
James Hayes-Bohanan
posted 10/21/07 @ 2:42 PM EST
Thank you to the Comment and to AVP Esposito for this important remembrance of Jaqueline Nilsson. Like my colleague, I am saddened that this tragic incident seems to have been largely forgotten in two short years. (Continued…)
shelie santos
posted 6/25/09 @ 2:10 AM EST
I attended Huntington Elementary School in Brockton Ma with Jackie. We were in the same 6th grade class togethe. She sat right behind me for the entire school year. (Continued…)
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