Arizona Teen Arrested for Reckless Manslaughter after Fatal Crash with Former Police Officer
ICARO Media Group
An 18-year-old Arizona woman has been taken into custody and charged with reckless manslaughter following a tragic incident where she allegedly rear-ended a motorcycle carrying a former police officer at a staggering speed of 155 mph. The collision resulted in the death of the motorcyclist, who the young driver desperately tried to save with CPR.
The incident occurred on March 12 around 10:30 p.m. on a Mesa highway when Rachel Berg was said to be speeding in her brand-new Chevy Corvette. Reports state that she crashed into a Harley-Davidson being ridden by Michael Clark, a 46-year-old Tempe park ranger and former police officer from Tacoma, Washington.
Witnesses claim that Clark was thrown from his bike after the impact, which took place in the eastbound HOV lane of US 60. Berg immediately pulled over and attempted to perform CPR on the fallen biker. Tragically, Clark succumbed to his injuries at the scene despite Berg's efforts.
The data retrieved from the airbag control module of Berg's vehicle revealed that she was traveling at an astonishing speed of 155 mph merely five seconds before the collision. It was also discovered that she had slammed on the brakes, but still hit the motorcycle at an estimated speed of 87 mph.
Following the incident, Berg was arrested on Monday and now faces charges of reckless manslaughter. The loss of Michael Clark has devastated his wife, Laura, who seeks justice for her husband. Recounting the moments of disbelief, Laura recalled trying to reach him when he failed to return home at the expected time. Her fears were confirmed upon hearing the sound of a police helicopter in the vicinity.
Michael Clark was described by his wife as a man of service, having tirelessly served both his country and the community of Tacoma as a police officer for 14 years. Recently, the couple had relocated to Mesa, where Clark took on the role of a park ranger just six months ago. Laura fondly remembered her husband's warmth, generosity, and culinary skills, as their home was always the gathering place for family holidays.
Emphasizing the devastating consequences of reckless decisions, Laura expressed her dismay at the loss of life and the impact it will have on their children. She urged young people to thoroughly consider their choices as the consequences can be truly devastating. She added that families are torn apart, leaving children without their fathers, and the road to recovery seems incomprehensible.
The tragedy has also taken a toll on Rachel Berg's family. As the legal proceedings unfold, both families are left to grapple with the unbearable grief caused by this unfortunate event.