We keep kicking him and nothing

Even as a Medianite, I'm not afraid to poke fun at our business now and then. There are phrases that occasionally we like to use that on the surface really don't make any sense. I came across one this morning that I've even been guilty of:
DENVER – It appears at least one person is dead.
"He is hanging outside the car window, several people have gone over and shook him – still nothing. Yes, indeed, it would appear he is dead."
Are we reporting news or setting up a scary scene in a horror movies.
"Watch your back, Officer McGrady, he might still be alive."
Dead or not dead, folks. Make a decision.
Or else we could say, "he appears to not be living."