DALLAS, TX (10/08/2015) — One woman is facing an intoxication manslaughter charge after being connected with a drunk driving car accident that resulted in the death of Thomas Ray Jungerberg.
Erin Barrington
Dallas authorities have identified 32-year-old Thomas Ray Jungerberg as the victim of a fatal, Thursday night wreck in the 2200 block of East Kiest Boulevard, near East Illinois Avenue, in Dallas, Texas.
Police report that at around 6:00 p.m., 22-year-old Erin Barrington was traveling at a high rate of speed on South Lancaster Road in a black Nissan Pathfinder when she approached a slow moving vehicle. Barrington switched lanes to pass the vehicle, however, when she re-entered the left lane, she rear-ended Jungerberg’s moped.
After the initial impact, Jungerberg’s moped rear-ended a Chevrolet Impala, and he was ejected onto the roadway.
According to authorities, Jungerberg was transported to nearby area hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“Tom was a joy to be around, always willing to help colleagues. He was kind and was always ready with his warm smile. He will be greatly missed,” said Kimberly Daniell from the DMA.
Barrington admitted to police that she had had one drink at the Golf Club of Dallas, at around 3:00 p.m., before she headed home.
According to an arrest warrant affidavit, Barrington had to hold onto one of the officers to keep her balance as she spoke to authorities at the scene.
Police reported that Barrington was booked into the Dallas County jail and has been charged with intoxication manslaughter.
Commentary
Alcohol-impaired drivers cause over 50 percent of accidents, many of which result in at least one fatality. Could this tragedy have been avoided? More than likely yes, if the liable party had thought responsibly before choosing to get behind the wheel.
