A TEENAGE girl has been killed after dangling out of a car window whilst speeding down a busy highway the night before Easter.
Lani Hicks, 18, was perched in the front car window when she lost her grip and tumbled onto the Interstate 35 in Oklahoma, before being fatally run over by multiple vehicles.
The deadly accident occurred at around 11:30pm on Saturday night, according to Oklahoma’s Highway Patrol.
Lani was out on a late evening joy ride with four other friends, one of whom was injured, when the fun-filled weekend transformed into a tragic nightmare.
Lani’s 19-year-old hometown friend, Mylie Campbell was behind the wheel and roaring past mile marker 50 when tragedy struck.
There is no evidence to suggest that drugs or alcohol played a role in this tragic incident.
A spokesman from Oklahoma Highway Patrol said: “It appears to be a devastating accident” and officers do not believe that criminal charges will be filed in connection with the death.
None of the five friends was wearing seatbelts, investigators confirmed.
Emergency crews rushed in to save the girl, but the teen was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information.
“Our hearts go out to Lani’s family during this incredibly difficult time, and they remain in our thoughts and prayers as this investigation concludes,” the OHP spokesperson added.
A GoFundMe set up to support the girl’s family has reached over $12,000 in donations.
“At just 18 years old, Lani had a vibrant personality that brought joy to everyone around her.
“Her sudden passing has left her family and friends heartbroken, and the loss is felt deeply throughout the community”, said the organiser.
The friend behind the wheel during Lani’s death pledged $500, according to the NY Post.
A young couple died in one another’s arms in a further Easter weekend tragedy.
Mariano Robles, 28, and Solana Albornoz, 32, had been dancing at a friend’s wedding and were headed home to their kids when their car was caught in a deadly storm.
Their two children – aged five and nine months – would never see their parents again.
The couple was found dead in their overturned car as police believe a flash flood sent the vehicle flying.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
