The Red and Black

Issue date: 8/26/03 Section: News

A University student has been charged with driving under the influence in connection with the death of Tommy O'Rourke, according to authorities.

Robert Martyn Cannon, a junior from Roswell, was driving the boat when O'Rourke, a sophomore from Alpharetta, was killed Friday morning, said Sgt. Wade Law of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

O'Rourke was one of three passengers in the boat and sustained severe head injuries when the vehicle struck a railroad trestle as it travelled down Swift Creek in Crisp County.

The accident occurred between 1:15 and 1:30 a.m. on Aug. 22 and O'Rourke was pronounced dead shortly after 3 a.m. at Crisp County Hospital, Law said.

O'Rourke's parents could not be reached for comment.

Cannon and the third passenger did not sustain major injuries and declined medical treatment, said DNR Capt. Ashley Darley.

When reached at his home Monday evening, Cannon, a fellow Chi Phi Fraternity brother of O'Rourke, expressed remorse at the loss of his friend.

"Tommy was one of my best friends," he said.

Thus far, Cannon faces charges of driving under the influence, but Law said the Crisp County district attorney is considering additional charges, which he would not disclose.

Cannon declined to comment on the charges.

Although DUI charges are most commonly associated with automobiles, Georgia law states those who operate any commercial vehicle while under the influence can be prosecuted.

A full incident report of the accident is expected to be released tomorrow, Darley said.

O'Rourke's memorial service will be held this morning at 10 at Saint Thomas Aquinas Church in Alpharetta.

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