World News: A Christmas story of tragedy

Tuesday, December 27

What my family's devastating news taught me

Today's newsletter comes with a note from USA TODAY Columnist Ingrid Jacques, who wrote about a Christmas family tragedy.

Christmas is now behind us, but this week is still full of celebrations with family and friends, as we spend the few remaining days of 2022 before ringing in the New Year.

I recently shared the very personal story of my family's tremendous loss on Christmas Day 35 years ago. My Aunt Amy, who was only 26, and her boyfriend were killed by a drunken driver on Christmas morning, as they were returning from picking up some forgotten presents.

I think this kind of loss is something many people identify with, and it hits us especially hard during the holidays, when family is supposed to be close.

There's also another reason I wanted to share Amy's story. Her life was snuffed out by a stranger who was recklessly speeding on city streets and ran a red light. His decision to drive drunk cost two lives – and he spent years in prison.

The author as a baby with her aunt, Amy.

Family photo

Traffic fatalities are at a 20-year high, and alcohol and drugs are the cause of many of these preventable disasters.

I hope what happened to Amy can serve as a warning to think twice before making a decision that could ruin so many lives.

So as the festivities continue this week, enjoy them. But if you have one glass too many, please have a designated driver or call an Uber.

Thanks for reading, and Happy New Year.

— Ingrid Jacques

What else has Ingrid been writing

•	Pets are our companions at home. More employers are welcoming them at work, too.
•	Trump's trading cards got us thinking: Is it sad? Desperate? Or a time to be selfless?
•	In new Title IX rules, Biden must not kick due process and free speech to the curb
•	'Inclusive' restaurant turns away Christian group because of its beliefs. Who's the bigot?

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