KLAS-TV Channel 8 News Las VegasFatal Officer Accident Shines Light on DUI

Fatal Officer Accident Shines Light on DUI

Thursday morning's accident is the latest in a number of high-profiled drunk driving deaths. The tragedy is once again shedding light on the problem of drinking and driving.

In seconds a life was lost and another one will never be the same. Police blame the accident on drunk driving.

"We just wanted to bring the children down, so they could pay their respects to our fallen hero," said Rodger Hyler.

A group of children visited the memorial for fallen Metro officer James Manor.

45-year-old Calvin Darling is only accused of a crime, but his trial for drunk driving would certainly generate a lot of public attention because it is a rare case.

Attorney Garrett Ogata specializes in DUI cases. If convicted of felony DUI with death, he says Darling faces two to 15 years behind bars. "DUI laws in Nevada are strict," he said.

But Ogata finds when he defends a case in California, the consequences of getting behind the wheel while drunk there are harsher. "Seriously, they're about three to four times more strict in California," he said.

Defense attorneys will start to build their case on behalf of Calvin Darling. "I know the sheriff said there were sirens and lights on, but I think they had some contradicting witnesses that are saying they didn't hear it or they didn't see it," said Ogata.

With almost 16-percent of Nevada drivers admitting in a federal government survey that they've driven drunk in the year before, the tragedy can serve as a reminder for everyone.

Police have not received Mr. Darling's blood alcohol level. If you've had too much to drink, call a cab or call Designated Drivers at 456-RIDE.