D.U.I. (Quincy, M.E.)
| D.U.I. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Episode Quote
“Driving isn’t a right—it’s a responsibility. And when that bell tolls, we all pay.” ~ Dr. Quincy, in D.U.I. (Quincy, M.E.)
Episode Overview
D.U.I. is the sixteenth episode of Season 6 of Quincy, M.E., airing February 14, 1980. It examines the tragic consequences of underage drinking and drunk driving following a high-speed crash involving two teenagers, including Dr. Asten’s niece, Melody Stedman.
Table of Contents
Application of The QME Episode Laws
✅ **Law 1:** Justice for victims is central. Quincy uncovers the truth behind the crash, advocating for accountability and awareness to prevent future tragedies. ✅ **Law 2:** The episode tackles social/ethical problems: teen substance abuse and parental responsibility. With raw sensitivity, it shines light on these societal issues. ✅ **Law 3:** Quincy confronts controversial themes—drunk teens, impaired judgment, loss—without sensationalism, honoring victims with respect. ✅ **Law 4:** Forensic accuracy drives the narrative. High BAC, cerebral swelling, skid-mark analysis: real medical evidence grounds the story in science.
Episode Synopsis
A single-car accident leaves two teenagers injured; Melody Stedman dies, her blood-alcohol levels reveal DUI. Lennie Miller, her boyfriend, survives but is deeply traumatized. Dr. Asten is devastated when he recognizes his niece. Quincy performs autopsies indicating not only alcohol impairment but also excessive speed and lack of restraints. Investigation reveals teenagers purchased alcohol at a party where IDs weren't checked. Quincy and Asten confront both lax enforcement and community apathy, while police examine party hosts’ responsibility.
Despite resistance from local authorities, Quincy’s forensic findings spur a formal inquiry. The episode closes with a public memorial and a rally advocating stricter enforcement of underage alcohol laws and educational campaigns.
Plot Summary
Dr. Quincy investigates when Melody Stedman, Asten's niece, dies in a nighttime crash. High blood-alcohol levels align with forensic signs of high-speed impact and trauma. Quincy and Asten challenge the crash narrative, interviewing partygoers and suppliers of the alcohol. The case extends from scientific examination to community accountability, ending with Quincy testifying at a school assembly on the responsibilities tied to drinking and driving.
← S05E15 – "Cover-Up" • D.U.I. • S05E17 – "The Winning Edge" Season 5 Overview: Full Episode List
Main Cast
- Jack Klugman as Dr. R. Quincy
- John S. Ragin as Dr. Robert Asten
- Robert Ito as Sam Fujiyama
- Garry Walberg as Lt. Monahan
Guest Cast
- Madlyn Rhue as Kelly Asten
- Karlene Crockett as Melody Stedman
- Ross Rhodes as Lennie Miller
Case File Summary
Victims: Melody Stedman (deceased), Lennie Miller (injured) Case #: LACC 80.02.112
Dr. Quincy’s forensic exam reveals a D.U.I.-related crash involving underage drinking and high-speed reckless driving. He exposes both individual and systemic negligence, prompting community action.
Alleged Perpetrator(s)
- Kelly Asten (portrayed by Madlyn Rhue) – provided alcohol to underage nephew/niece (party host).
- Event attendees who served minors – faced social/academic scrutiny following investigation.
Filming Locations and Exterior Footage
Filming utilized a mock crash site on a closed LA street, and interiors were shot on soundstage sets depicting the Asten family home and party location.
Forensic Science Insight
- BAC analysis shows elevated levels (0.18%) consistent with significant impairment.
- Crash reconstruction: speed, trajectory, lack of seatbelt use contribute to fatal outcomes.
- Cerebral edema and skull fractures confirmed via autopsy and X-ray imaging.
Themes & Tropes
- Teen Recklessness – the vulnerability and consequences of impetuous youth.
- Responsibility vs. Privilege – Asten and Quincy weigh family influence against accountability.
- Forensic Truth – scientific analysis cuts through protective biases.
Reception & Ratings
Season 5 saw acclaim for episodes blending medical intrigue with social issues :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}. Fans noted the emotional weight of "D.U.I." given Asten's personal connection :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. IMDb ratings hover around 7.2/10 for the season :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
Trivia
- Guest star Madlyn Rhue was a noted TV actor whose casting added emotional depth.
- The episode aired on Valentine's Day, reinforcing its themes of love turned tragic.
- It influenced later episodic specials on teen drinking and school safety.
Cultural Impact
"D.U.I." exemplifies how Quincy, M.E. fused entertainment with public service, shining national light on the perils of drunk and underage driving. The episode led to letters from victim-support groups and calls for fundraising efforts supporting traffic safety education.
See Also
External Links
- [IMDb page for D.U.I. episode](https://www.imdb.com"title")
- [Season 5 overview on Quincy Examiner](https://www.quincyexaminer.com/wiki/index.php?title=Quincy%2C_M.E._%28season_5%29)
- [Shout! Factory DVD – Season 5](https://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/59354/quincy-me-season-five/)
- [Quincy M.E. streaming info (JustWatch)](https://www.justwatch.com/us/tv-show/quincy-m-e/season-5)