A 5-year-old girl was killed Saturday in a violent single-vehicle rollover on westbound Interstate 494 near Pieper Road in Sunfish Lake, according to authorities. The van veered off the roadway and rolled multiple times before coming to rest. Public reports identified the child as Camila Flores, who was not wearing a seat belt at the time. Two other people in the vehicle were evaluated at the scene and taken for further care as investigators work to sort out exactly how the crash unfolded.
What authorities said
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the van was headed west on I-494 near Pieper Road when it left the highway and rolled multiple times. Troopers said the driver, a 20-year-old man from Salem, Oregon, had been wearing a seat belt and suffered non-life-threatening injuries. He was not transported to a hospital. Authorities said alcohol is not suspected in the crash. Inver Grove Heights police and fire crews, along with MHealth and Fairview ambulance teams, responded to the scene and treated the passengers.
Child passenger safety and context
Federal safety guidelines are clear that properly used car seats, booster seats, and seat belts sharply cut the risk of serious injury in a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that children ride in age- and size-appropriate restraints and remain in the back seat until a seat belt fits them correctly, a reminder of how vulnerable unrestrained young passengers can be. NHTSA offers detailed guidance for caregivers on choosing and installing the right restraint for a child’s age and size.
Investigation ongoing
The Minnesota State Patrol is continuing to investigate the crash and plans to release more details as they are confirmed, Pioneer Press reported. Anyone who witnessed the rollover or has additional information is asked to contact troopers or local law enforcement.
