Legal expert and criminal defense attorney Donna Rotunno provides a detailed analysis of the deadly vehicle crash investigation at a soccer field in Wichita, Kansas. Additionally, she offers insights into a disrupted Mall of America terror plot, discussing a federal detention hearing involving a Minnesota man.
A tragic incident occurred when a Missouri businesswoman and mother, Misty Leslie, lost her life. She was killed when a police SUV responded to an emergency and collided with her luxury car. Leslie, 48, was driving a 2022 Audi SQ5 when her car was hit by a 2024 Ford Explorer, driven by an Independence Police Department officer. The crash happened at an intersection near Kansas City shortly after 1 a.m. on October 11.
The Independence Police Department stated that the officer was driving on U.S. Highway 24 with lights and siren activated when Leslie’s car entered the intersection. Preliminary evidence suggests the officer had the green light while Leslie encountered a red one. Both were wearing seat belts, yet Leslie’s injuries were severe and led to her death. The officer was hospitalized but not seriously injured.
There is no information on vehicle speeds or the nature of the emergency. The investigation continues.
This collision occurred months after the Independence police imposed tighter regulations on high-speed pursuits, following scrutiny of their driving practices. During a March City Council meeting, interim Police Chief Douglas Brinkley reported that Independence officers conducted 541 pursuits in 2025, significantly higher than the 137 by Kansas City police, according to The Kansas City Star.
I do think we have a reputation for pursuing, but we still have to balance that risk versus reward,said Brinkley.
An investigation in 2024 found Independence led the Kansas City metro area in high-speed pursuits, resulting in over 150 crashes and 51 injuries, with a significant portion attributed to Independence. The department revised its policy to restrict pursuits for minor infractions, but the crash involving Leslie was not related to such a pursuit.
Fox News Digital has reached out to the Independence Police Department for details regarding the officer’s speed, the emergency in question, duty status, and potential video evidence. A public records request was submitted under Missouri’s Sunshine Law for crash reports, dispatch records, video footage, and emergency-driving policies.
Leslie served as a district manager with Signet Jewelers, focusing on the Banter by Piercing Pagoda brand. She also owned EBW Photography, capturing crucial life moments. Her obituary highlighted her commitment and leadership, especially toward her employees and her daughter, Emarea Leslie.
Her friend, Christel Meinhold, paid tribute on Facebook, sharing memories of their shared journey through motherhood and life’s struggles. Meinhold emphasized Leslie’s commitment to every aspect of her life, from work to photography, to being a mother.
A funeral service was held on October 19 in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Fox News Digital has also reached out to Missouri State Highway Patrol for potential assistance in the investigation, as well as Signet Jewelers for a statement.
Greg Wehner, a Fox News Digital reporter, continues covering U.S. news and crime, focusing on major developments in law enforcement and public safety.