ELLSWORTH — Determined to make teenagers think before they drink and drive, the Ellsworth Police Department will stage Every 15 Minutes at the high school May 8 and 9.

The program includes a grisly mock accident scene and funeral for the “victims.”

“We feel that it’s a valuable program and if even one student is affected and decision impacted, then we feel that all the time and effort that goes into it is well worth it,” said Ellsworth Police Sgt. Glenn Moshier

Moshier and Sgt. Shawn Willey organized the event with the assistance of numerous agencies, school administrators and a student committee.

On Tuesday morning, a costumed Grim Reaper will pull students from their classrooms every 15 minutes to demonstrate lives lost in drunk driving accidents.

The students’ obituaries will be read to their classmates. “The Living Dead” will return to class with white-painted faces and Every 15 Minutes T-shirts. They will not be able to talk to their peers for the rest of the day.

Around noon, a 911 call will play over the speaker system.

Juniors and seniors will go outside to witness an accident scene staged by the Ellsworth Fire Department and Auto Buff.

Two students will be “killed,” others injured and one arrested for operating under the influence.

The wounded will be taken by ambulance to Maine Coast Memorial Hospital. The dead will leave in a hearse and the accused in a police cruiser.

The student portraying the drunk driver will be booked into Hancock County Jail and appear before a judge.

For more of the latest news, pick up a copy of The Ellsworth American.