The state Supreme Court today upheld dismissal of a family’s claim for damages against a Henderson State University fraternity that sponsored and charged admission to a Hot Spring County keg party in 2005. A drunk driver who’d been at the party caused a wreck that killed him and injured members of a family in another car. The injured family previously reached a settlement with the estate of the driver.

The Supreme Court affirmed that Arkansas law says a social host is not an Arkansas alcohol retailer and thus cannot be held liable for actions by a person legally able to possess alcohol who received drinks at its party. The court has held that alcohol retailers can be held liable for selling to minors or intoxicated persons.

Advertisement

Be a part of something bigger

As a reader of the Arkansas Times, you know we’re dedicated to bringing you tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, we've been fighting the good fight in Little Rock and beyond – with your support, we can do even more. By becoming a subscriber or donating as little as $1 to our efforts, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers to expand our coverage and continue to bring important stories to light. With over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, it's clear that our readers value our great journalism. Join us in the fight for truth.

Previous article Judge Proctor for his defense Next article Ron Sheffield to Supreme Court