Platte County, Missouri — A Missouri teenager is facing criminal charges after authorities say he crashed a high-performance BMW while traveling more than twice the posted speed limit, killing a high school senior described as a talented athlete, artist and scholar.
Investigators allege the deadly crash occurred after the group attended a birthday party where underage drinking was taking place.
Deadly Crash Occurred After Overnight Party
According to court documents, 18-year-old Om Patel was behind the wheel of a 2024 BMW M4 when the crash occurred shortly before 4:30 a.m. on March 22 near Missouri Highway 45 and North Main Street.
Authorities say Patel had been attending an Airbnb birthday party with Tessa Walker, a high school senior and standout athlete, before the fatal collision.
Investigators later discovered evidence of underage alcohol consumption at the party.
“Evidence of underage consumption of alcohol was located,” the arrest affidavit states.
Police say a third passenger was also inside the vehicle at the time of the crash and survived with moderate injuries.
Driver Allegedly Admitted Responsibility
According to investigators, Patel made a startling statement after escaping the wrecked vehicle.
Authorities say he exited the burning BMW covered in Walker’s blood and admitted he was responsible for the crash.
“Patel admitted to coming from a party,” the affidavit says. “Patel told [a deputy], ‘I drove and killed her.'”
The vehicle was reportedly already engulfed in flames when emergency crews arrived at the scene. Patel was not seriously injured during the collision.
Investigators Say BMW Was Traveling Over 102 MPH
Members of the crash investigation team conducted an extensive examination of the scene.
According to the affidavit:
“Members of the Crash Team conducted an investigation at the scene of the collision.”
Investigators found tire marks and used forensic crash reconstruction techniques to estimate the vehicle’s speed.
Police Say 13-Month-Old Died From Dehydration and Malnutrition After Days Alone in Playpen
Authorities determined Patel was traveling at least 102.65 mph in a 45 mph zone before losing control.
“The BMW appeared to have impacted the ground before rolling over for one full rotation. The BMW came to rest on its wheels, facing west.”
The extreme speed is believed to have been a major factor in the crash.
Victim Found Dead Inside Burning Vehicle
After firefighters extinguished the flames, first responders made a devastating discovery.
“Once the fire was put out, responders located [Walker] deceased in the back passenger side of the BMW,” the affidavit states.
According to investigators, Walker suffered catastrophic injuries, including a fractured skull with brain matter exposed.
Her death has left family members, classmates and the local community mourning the loss of a young woman who was widely admired for her achievements and character.
Community Remembers Promising Athlete
Walker was remembered as an exceptional student and athlete who excelled in multiple areas of life.
Her obituary described her as someone with limitless potential and a bright future ahead.
“Tessa will forever be remembered for her wit and smile,” her obituary states. “She was an athlete, an artist and writer. She dominated in competitive volleyball, track and academics. If given time she would have indeed changed the world.”
Authorities say Patel’s blood-alcohol concentration measured .047%, which exceeds the legal limit for drivers under 21 in Missouri.
He has been charged with second-degree involuntary manslaughter and could face up to four years in prison if convicted.
The investigation remains ongoing as prosecutors continue reviewing evidence related to the fatal crash.
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