It is always upsetting to learn that someone has died in a car accident. It is even worse when the individuals who die are young people who but for certain actions would likely still be alive.  Sadly this recently occurred in an area not far from Pittsburgh. Three young men, all under the age of 21, died when the pickup truck in which they were travelling left the road and landed in a pond. In the course of an investigation following the incident, authorities determined that despite their age, all three had consumed beverages containing alcohol, at a bar in the area.

Serving underage patrons is against the law in the state of Pennsylvania. For this reason, along with other things uncovered in the course of the investigation, the owner of the bar is facing criminal charges including unsworn falsification to authorities and fabricating or tampering with evidence. The woman, who was reportedly tending bar when the men visited, has also been criminally charged in the matter. She is facing charges for proving alcoholic beverages to minors.

While no one wants to face criminal charges, the bar owner could face civil charges related to the fatal car accident as well. Under dram shop laws, it is possible that the families of the young men who died could seek financial compensation from the bar for serving alcohol to their underage loved ones. While such a lawsuit cannot undo the great loss the loved ones of the men have experienced, it is possible that it will provide a sense of closure to those the men left behind.

Source: WPXI, “Indiana Co. bartender, owner accused of serving 3 men before fatal crash,” July 15, 2013