Senator Ted Kennedy was involved in a car accident on Chappaquiddick Island that claimed the life of Mary Jo Kopechne, a 28-year-old campaign worker. On the night of July 18, 1969, Kennedy attended a party for Kopechne and other aides who had worked on his late brother Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign. Following the party, Kennedy offered to drive Kopechne home to her residence in Edgartown. However, as they traveled down a narrow, unlit road, his car plunged off a submerged bridge into a tidal pond known as Dike Bridge. Kennedy managed to escape the vehicle and swam to shore, but Kopechne was unable to exit and drowned inside the car. Kennedy did not report the accident until hours later, which raised questions about his actions during and after the incident. Local authorities discovered Kopechne's body the following morning, and the incident garnered immediate media attention. The event was surrounded by controversy, as Kennedy was scrutinized for his alleged negligence and the subsequent handling of the situation. He ultimately pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of an accident and was fined, but avoided more serious legal consequences. Kennedy's reputation and political career were profoundly affected, leading to calls for accountability and transparency. In the aftermath, the incident dominated headlines and raised issues regarding the treatment of women, political privilege, and the responsibilities of public figures. The Chappaquiddick incident entered the lexicon as a cautionary tale regarding morality, ethics, and political behavior, leaving a lasting impact on American politics.