**Core Concept**
Meningococcal meningitis is a severe infection caused by *Neisseria meningitidis*, requiring prompt empirical antibiotic therapy. The choice of antibiotic is crucial due to the risk of severe complications and high mortality.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct empirical therapy often involves a third-generation cephalosporin, such as *ceftriaxone* or *cefotaxime*, due to their broad-spectrum activity against *Neisseria meningitidis* and ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Incorrect due to lack of specificity.
**Option B:** Incorrect as it may not be the first-line choice.
**Option D:** Incorrect due to resistance patterns.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember, *ceftriaxone* is a common choice for empirical therapy in suspected meningococcal meningitis due to its efficacy and penetration into cerebrospinal fluid.

**Correct Answer:** D. Ceftriaxone.