Dear Community,

We write to you today with heavy hearts and an overwhelming sense of grief, seeking your support and solidarity in our pursuit of justice and accountability. Our community mourns the tragic loss of five young girls, whose lives were senselessly taken in a devastating car accident. We implore you to stand with us as we strive to hold the state of Minnesota accountable for its negligence, which resulted in this unimaginable tragedy.

On 06/16/23, our lives were shattered when a reckless driver, who had been pursued by a state trooper, recklessly collided with the vehicle carrying these vibrant, promising girls. In a moment of unimaginable tragedy, their lives were abruptly cut short, leaving a void that can never be filled.

What adds to the anguish of this situation is that the state trooper, while violating Minnesota law that forbids police from chasing fleeing cars in busy and residential areas, didn’t have his sirens on. This simple act, had it been followed, could have potentially alerted drivers and the innocent victims, saving their lives and preventing this heartbreaking catastrophe.

The police must recognize all the following and so much more:

Public Safety: The primary responsibility of law enforcement is to protect and ensure the safety of the community. Failing to activate sirens during a high-speed pursuit increases the risk of accidents and endangers innocent bystanders and drivers. The absence of warning signals denies other motorists the opportunity to react appropriately and take necessary precautions.

Potential Victim Protection: In cases where law enforcement is pursuing a suspect, the use of sirens serves as a vital warning for the person being pursued. Failing to activate sirens denies potential victims the opportunity to recognize the danger they are in and take evasive actions. This lack of warning can leave innocent individuals vulnerable to harm or even fatalities.

Accountability and Transparency: Holding police accountable for failing to use sirens during chases promotes transparency and trust between law enforcement and the community. It reinforces the principle that officers must adhere to established protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of everyone involved. When accountability is maintained, it helps build confidence in the police force and fosters positive relationships with the community.

Preventing Unnecessary Harm: Chases involving police vehicles have the potential to escalate already tense situations. By failing to activate sirens, law enforcement may unknowingly contribute to heightened anxiety and increased risks. Holding police accountable for using proper warning signals can help mitigate unnecessary harm and reduce the likelihood of accidents or injuries resulting from the pursuit

We cannot bring back these precious lives that were tragically lost, but we can come together as a community to demand justice and accountability. The state of Minnesota, as a guardian of public safety, has a responsibility to ensure the well-being and protection of its citizens. The negligence displayed in this instance cannot be ignored or brushed aside. We firmly believe that no individual or institution should be above the law, especially when their actions directly result in the loss of innocent lives.

We earnestly request your support in our plea for justice and accountability. Together, we can make our voices heard, and together, we can strive for systemic change to ensure that such avoidable accidents never occur again. Let us unite as a community to demand that the state of Minnesota takes responsibility for its actions and implements measures to prevent future tragedies.

We urge you to:

1. Sign the petition demanding a thorough investigation into the incident, focusing not only on the actions of the young man but also on the state trooper's violation of the pursuit policy and negligence that contributed to this tragic outcome.
2. Share this message with your friends, family, and colleagues, raising awareness of the need for justice, accountability, and reform in law enforcement practices.
3. Engage with local representatives, lawmakers, and media outlets, urging them to address this issue, demand accountability from the state of Minnesota, and advocate for changes to police pursuit policies that prioritize public safety and prevent similar tragedies.

Attorney General Office number: 651-296-3353

Senator Amy Klobuchar: 612-727-5220

Congress Ilhan Omar: (202) 225-4755

 

4. Lets demonstrate our unity and unwavering commitment to justice and accountability.

Together, we can bring about a transformative change that holds the state of Minnesota accountable for the loss of these precious lives. Let us honor their memory by demanding a safer and more responsible society, where no one falls victim to negligence or violations of established laws and policies.

We extend our deepest gratitude for your support during this profoundly difficult time. May our collective efforts bring solace to grieving hearts and ensure that no more lives are lost due to preventable incidents.