As a fellow journalism student, I am disgusted by The Post's story in Tuesday's issue, Drugs possibly played role in student's death. I cannot believe that The Post would be willing to print absolute hearsay, and hurtful hearsay at that, about a fellow student who recently passed away. I did not know Eric whatsoever. It's possible he was using drugs at the time of his accident. But the fact is, you don't know that yet. Literally all you have is a non-quote about the Franklin County coroner who allegedly said that Eric allegedly tested positive for alleged drugs. (Hint: when you have to use the word 'allegedly' 10 times in one sentence, you probably have a non-story.) Then the article goes on to say that toxicology reports are being run ... but the results aren't back yet. And oh yeah, the investigation they're conducting is standard procedure. And OH - the police said nothing has changed. Basically you had nothing ... and for some unknown reason decided to print it anyway. Since when does 'rumor' constitute front-page news? (Unless you're The New York Times hoping to smear John McCain, but I suppose that's a different story.) I feel so badly for Eric's family, who now has to answer to media allegations about drug use when absolutely nothing has been proven or even officially accused! Rumors are a NON-STORY, Post. This story didn't just unnecessarily embarrass Eric and his family, it definitely embarrassed you, too.
Maria Fisher is a senior studying journalism.
4 Opinion
