Northwest Catholic High School held an impactful program about the dangers of drinking and driving, featuring the story of a Farmington High School graduate and West Hartford Youth Hockey alum who was killed by a drunk driver in 2022.

Submitted by James Drzewiecki, Northwest Catholic High School

Northwest Catholic High School hosted a powerful presentation last week, welcoming Carri Roux from the Luke Roux Foundation to speak about the dangers of drinking and driving.

The presentation focused on the tragic story of Luke Roux, a Farmington High School graduate who was killed by a drunk driver on June 25, 2022. During the school’s pre-prom assembly, Carri Roux shared the personal pain and suffering she has endured as a mother who lost her child.

“I am here not just as a grieving mother, but as someone whose mission it has become to put a real face behind the horrifying statistics about impaired driving,” said Roux. Her heartfelt presentation included a biography of her son Luke, the impact his loss has had on her and her family, and a letter from the perpetrator, who expressed remorse for his actions from prison.

“It’s a story about choices, responsibility, and the consequences that stem from a decision made in the blink of an eye,” said Roux.

The Luke Roux Foundation, which advocates for change at local, state, federal, and corporate levels, aims to reduce the number of lives lost annually due to impaired driving. They support technological advancements in vehicle systems designed to prevent drunk driving and promote initiatives that can help prevent future tragedies.

“Luke’s kindness wasn’t just something he showed – it was something he lived. He was quiet and soft-spoken, but his presence made a lasting impact. He didn’t seek the spotlight – instead, he lifted others simply by being himself,” said Roux. “Kindness was at the core of who Luke was. It shaped the way he moved through the world – and it left a lasting imprint on everyone lucky enough to know him.”

Sgt. Chuck Grasso, who is retired from the Enfield Police Department, speaks at Northwest Catholic High School. Courtesy photo

Sgt. Chuck Grasso, a retired Enfield police officer who now works with UConn’s College of Engineering analyzing crash scene data, also took part in the presentation by administering field sobriety tests to student volunteers. Having delivered hundreds of similar talks, he remarked that Northwest Catholic’s students were the most respectful and attentive audience he has ever encountered.

As part of the commitment to promoting safe choices, each student will receive a $25 Uber gift certificate before graduation to encourage responsible decision-making regarding transportation.

In the wake of the powerful presentation, the School Counseling and Campus Ministry offices remain available to support any student who wishes to continue the conversation during the school day.

Carri Roux speaks about honoring Luke through the foundation’s Kindness Cards mission. Courtesy photo

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