Michael Rosario-Cruz, 27, an illegal immigrant, was charged with killing four young people after driving the wrong way while intoxicated on Interstate 40 in Canadian County, Oklahoma, early Friday morning. [1, 2]
Rosario-Cruz drove westbound in the eastbound lanes and struck another vehicle head-on. The second vehicle caught fire, killing all four occupants: Kiercey Hickson, 20; Quincy Jones, 19; and Haliegh Salazar and Brad Palmer, both 18 years old. [1, 2]
He faces four counts of second-degree murder, DUI causing serious injury, driving the wrong way, carrying firearms while intoxicated, firearm possession, and transporting an open container. [1, 2] Rosario-Cruz was released from the hospital and booked into Canadian County Jail. He is subject to an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainer request to notify authorities before any release so deportation proceedings can begin. [1, 2]
The victims were recently remembered at a vigil held at El Reno High School, where three had been graduates. [1, 2] Nancy Salsman, a retired teacher who taught three of the victims in second grade, said, "You just make that connection that never goes away. They’re always your kids. And when something like this happens we come together." [2]
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said, "Driving impaired is a reckless, life-changing decision. The loss of these young lives will have a lasting impact on countless family members, friends, and communities." [1]
Authorities continue their investigation into the crash that has deeply affected the Canadian County community.
