Remembering Andrew
Remembering Andrew

Published: May 8, 2008

A memorial to Andrew Bostic. Photo by Conner Rohwer

Conner Rohwer
Sophomore
Mustang

Andrew Bostic was on his way home one night in March 2006 when he had problems with his truck.

The 16-year-old called his dad for help, and the two worked together to fix the problem.

The unimaginable happened.

Andrew was struck and killed by a drunk driver.

About 40 percent of all traffic crashes are alcohol-related, according to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office. About 275 people die in Oklahoma each year because of alcohol-related crashes.

Two years after her son died, Andrew’s mother continues her efforts to help prevent what happened to her son from happening to somebody else.

“I do what I can, but I’m not sure what to do,” Cindy Bostic said. “I try to talk to younger children just so I can catch them earlier on.”

So far she’s convinced a dozen people have promised her they won’t drink and drive.

Overcoming grief is complicated, especially for loved ones of people killed by drunk drivers, said Jana Webb, a counselor at Mustang High School.

“One thing that makes it difficult for people who have lost others to drunk driving is the anger they feel towards the drunk driver,” Webb said.

While Andrew’s death hit home for several Mustang teenagers, Bostic said it is only when she shares the specific details of it that teens really respond.

The driver who hit Andrew received a 10-year sentence. However, he may get out early for good behavior.

“I still haven’t forgiven him,” she said. “He hasn’t even apologized for killing Andrew.”

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