An 18-year-old Missouri man faces a second-degree involuntary manslaughter charge after a fiery crash that killed high school senior Tessa Walker. Om Patel admitted to police that he drove the vehicle at high speed following an alcohol-fueled party.
Platte County sheriff's deputies responded to the crash shortly before 4:30 a.m. on March 22 near Missouri Highway 45 and North Main Street. The 2024 BMW M4, traveling at least 102 mph in a 45 mph zone, rolled over and caught fire. Patel, of Riverside, exited the burning car covered in Walker's blood and told officers, 'I drove and killed her.' Walker, a three-sport athlete at Park Hill School District, died from a fractured skull. A third passenger suffered moderate injuries. Patel had a blood-alcohol content of 0.047 percent, above Missouri's limit for those under 21. He is charged with second-degree involuntary manslaughter and could face up to four years in prison if convicted.