A woman named Catherine Durham was observed getting extremely drunk at Louie's Bar and Grill in Oklahoma City. Despite only consuming two shots, she became heavily intoxicated and showed signs of impairment. Concerned about her well-being, the bar staff advised her to take a cab and drink water. However, when Durham attempted to leave, an unnamed manager noticed something alarming in her car—a car seat containing Durham's 8-month-old child. Understanding the danger involved, the manager tried to take Durham's keys, but she responded aggressively by grabbing the manager's hair.
The manager promptly called 911 for assistance. Witnesses reported that Durham, still highly intoxicated, attempted to drive away with the baby in the backseat. Thankfully, they managed to prevent her from leaving until the police arrived. When the authorities came, they found Durham walking behind the building, seemingly trying to hide, while holding her child. Although she stumbled and fell due to her intoxication, the baby remained unharmed.
Catherine Durham was subsequently arrested and charged with child endangerment. The child was placed into protective custody due to the mother's extreme level of intoxication and the fact that the baby had been left alone in the vehicle for approximately 30 minutes. The infant was released to Durham's neighbor, who works for the Department of Health Services.
The staff at Louie's Bar and Grill were rightfully commended for their actions in protecting the infant. They recognized the severity of Durham's intoxication and took proactive measures to prevent her from driving. Their vigilance likely saved lives that night. This incident serves as a reminder for bartenders, waitstaff, and patrons at establishments that serve alcohol to intervene when witnessing someone attempting to drink and drive. It highlights the importance of not letting anyone get behind the wheel while intoxicated.
