MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota – A Minnesota State Trooper is facing criminal charges after a fatal accident that claimed the life of a teenage cheerleader. The victim, 18-year-old Olivia Flores, was tragically killed just weeks before her graduation. Trooper Shane Roper, 32, was reportedly driving at an excessive speed without using lights or sirens when he collided with Flores’ vehicle.
The devastating incident took place on May 18 and resulted in Flores’ death and injuries to five others. Olmstead County Attorney Mark Ostrem has announced that Roper is now being charged with second-degree manslaughter, criminal vehicular homicide, reckless driving, and five counts of criminal vehicular operation.
According to witnesses, Roper’s patrol car was described as approaching like a “rocket.” The collision occurred when Roper’s vehicle collided with a Ford Focus, pushing it into another nearby car. While all victims were rushed to the hospital, Flores tragically did not survive her injuries.
This is not the first time that Roper’s driving has come into question. Prosecutors have revealed that he has been involved in four previous accidents due to inattentive driving or speeding. In one instance, he was reported to have driven over 99 mph multiple times, including going as fast as 135 mph in a 55 mph zone without using lights or sirens.
The Minnesota State Patrol’s policy is to safeguard all lives while enforcing the law, a policy that Roper is alleged to have grossly violated with his negligent driving. Flores’ family has requested an independent investigation into the incident.
Roper is currently on paid investigative leave as per his labor contract and has been charged by summons.
It remains to be seen how this case will unfold, but the tragic loss of Olivia Flores has left a community in mourning, demanding accountability for the actions of a state trooper entrusted with ensuring public safety.