Chicopee High Students Witness Dramatic Drunk Driving Simulation

Mock crash scene features totaled car, first responders to warn teens about impaired driving risks ahead of prom and graduation season.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:18pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus image depicting the blurred silhouette of a damaged vehicle and the lights of an emergency response vehicle, conveying the emotional impact of a car crash scene without showing specific details.A mock crash scene brings the harsh realities of drunk driving to life for Chicopee high school students, underscoring the need for responsible choices during high-risk celebrations.Chicopee Today

Chicopee Comprehensive High School seniors participated in a mock car crash demonstration designed to illustrate the life-threatening consequences of drunk and impaired driving. The event, held on school grounds, featured a totaled vehicle, local first responders, and a simulated emergency scene to educate students about the dangers of operating a vehicle under the influence as prom and graduation season approaches.

Why it matters

Car crashes remain the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States, making this type of educational simulation critical for raising awareness and promoting safe driving habits among young people during high-risk periods like prom and graduation season.

The details

The demonstration utilized a totaled vehicle provided by Hampshire Towing to simulate the aftermath of a high-impact collision. Chicopee Fire Department crews performed a vehicle extrication, a process used to remove trapped victims from wreckage, while police demonstrated the process of taking an impaired driver into custody for operating under the influence.

  • The event was held on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
  • The demonstration was timed to coincide with the beginning of prom and graduation season.

The players

Chicopee Comprehensive High School

A public high school located in Chicopee, Massachusetts.

Chicopee Fire Department

The fire department that participated in the mock crash demonstration, performing a vehicle extrication simulation.

Chicopee Police Department

The police department that participated in the mock crash demonstration, demonstrating the process of taking an impaired driver into custody.

Hampshire Towing

The towing company that provided the totaled vehicle used in the mock crash demonstration.

Samantha Medina

A senior at Chicopee Comprehensive High School who reflected on the personal tragedy of losing a relative in a car accident.

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What they’re saying

“Crews today put on an extrication on a vehicle already damaged and able to do a presentation for the students. Not trying to scare them, but educate them.”

— Katie Collins-Kalbaugh, Chicopee Fire Captain

“General awareness, especially for kids, if you're going out and celebrating. We all did it too, just be aware and be smart.”

— Travis Odiorne, Public Information Officer, Chicopee Police Department

“I had a cousin who passed, she was in the middle seat and didn't have a seat belt on, and she flew out. It can happen to you, your family, or anyone.”

— Samantha Medina, Senior, Chicopee Comprehensive High School

What’s next

After the student presentation concluded, fire crews remained with the vehicle to continue dismantling it. The department used the wreckage for additional internal training and teaching purposes.

The takeaway

This dramatic simulation serves as a powerful reminder to high school students about the life-threatening consequences of drunk and impaired driving, especially during high-risk periods like prom and graduation season. By witnessing the emergency response process firsthand, students are better equipped to make responsible choices that could save lives on the road.