Cheerleader, 18, Killed In Accident Caused By State Trooper
Olivia Flores, an 18 year old, ready to graduate from high school, has died in a tragic car accident. Also, 2 of her friends were injured.
The crash was caused by a Minnesota policeman. He has been charged with manslaughter for the killing of high school cheerleader Olivia Flores.
On May 18, Olivia Flores was out with Angelina Bartz (21), and Katarina Bartz (19) celebrating a friend’s birthday. Flores and her friends were involved in a crash with Officer Roper and his ride-along passenger. There were also two additional passengers in a third car involved in the collision. The third car passengers were also injured.
Minnesota State Patrol Trooper Shane Roper has been charged with manslaughter to the second-degree and criminal vehicular homicide in connection with the death of Ms. Flores according to a statement issued by the Olmsted County Attorney’s office. Officer Roper, is a 32-year-old, with eight years of experience.
State Trooper Roper was in pursuit of a “traffic violator when he crashed into a Ford Focus located outside a mall. During the pursuit, Roper “turned off his emergency lights and sirens and accelerated to full throttle.” He was driving twice the posted speed limit. “Trooper Roper’s vehicle violently impacted the Focus,”
The Ford Focus driver said Roper’s police car was fast like “a rocket” and another witness said the car was “flying.”
Two GoFundMe have been set up. One on behalf of the Bartz sisters and one for the Flores family.
“Instead of planning Olivia’s graduation party and celebrating her next chapter in life, Steph and Carlos are left picking up the pieces of this tragedy,” wrote the Flores family.
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Oliva’s GoFundme continued: “Olivia was such a special young lady. To know her is to be inspired by her. She was fierce and she was loyal. She was beautiful down to her soul. I can only say to know her and love her was a gift! Please consider giving whatever you can to help support her family. Every little bit will be appreciated.”
The Bartz sisters have received many injuries from the accident, both mental and physical. Their GoFundMe states: “Angelina has sustained a fractured rib, traumatic brain injury, bruised liver, lacerated kidney, sprained wrist and finger, whiplash, and extensive bruising. Katarina’s injuries include a shattered pelvis requiring surgery, a fractured rib, traumatic brain injury, and severe bruising.”
According to their family,”There are piling medical bills, along with being unable to work during their healing process, leading to significant financial strain.” The family hopes to raise money to help with medical bills, living costs and other costs that could occur.