Amy Mek
Minneapolis, MN – In a devastating incident that has shaken the University of Minnesota community, prosecutors have escalated charges against 30-year-old Ali Abas Samator following a fatal hit-and-run on Thursday, November 7, at around 10:25 p.m., which claimed the life of 20-year-old student Rylie Saloum.
Samator, whose criminal history reveals a troubling pattern of alcohol-related offenses and violent crimes, is now facing multiple felony charges, including criminal vehicular homicide. This tragedy exposes the dangers posed by repeat offenders with a history of impaired driving and violent behavior.
A Night of Tragedy
The incident occurred around 10:25 p.m. at the intersection of Cedar Avenue and Riverside Avenue, where Saloum was walking back to her dorm. Surveillance footage reportedly captured Samator’s red Toyota Camry running a red light and striking Saloum as she legally crossed in the crosswalk. According to the complaint, there were no tire marks indicating that Samator attempted to stop before the collision.
Police scanner audio revealed that Saloum suffered “substantial blood loss” and was transported by EMS with a severe head injury and “multiple deformed extremities.” According to the charges, Saloum had “head-to-toe fractures,” including air in her spinal cavity, carotid artery damage, brain bleeding, and other fatal injuries. CPR was initiated en route to the hospital. Despite extensive medical efforts, Saloum succumbed to her injuries on November 10.
A Pattern of Recklessness
Samator’s record includes three prior alcohol-related driving convictions within the last decade and a canceled license deemed “inimical to public safety.” However, his criminal history extends beyond impaired driving and includes a troubling pattern of dangerous and unlawful behavior over the years:
- 2015 Second-Degree Aggravated Robbery: Samator was convicted of second-degree aggravated robbery after carjacking a taxicab, which he later crashed. He pleaded guilty to the felony offense and received a stayed sentence. The incident raised serious concerns about his disregard for public safety.
- 2016 Felony Theft During Probation: While still on probation for the 2015 robbery, Samator was convicted of stealing $10,000 from his employer. This second felony conviction again resulted in a stayed sentence, reflecting a continued pattern of criminal activity despite being under court supervision.
- Probation Violations and Incarceration: Samator eventually served a short prison sentence following repeated probation violations. His record also shows ongoing financial obligations, including unpaid fines and restitution orders dating back several years, indicating a failure to comply with court-ordered penalties.
- 2017 Arrest with Multiple Charges: In September 2017, Samator was arrested by Minneapolis Police on a range of charges, including second-degree aggravated robbery, theft of movable property, and multiple counts of driving while intoxicated (DWI). He was also charged with driving after revocation of his license, showcasing his disregard for legal restrictions and public safety.
- 2019 Arrest in Arizona: Samator’s criminal history appears to extend beyond Minnesota. In January 2019, he was reportedly arrested in Maricopa County, Arizona, on multiple charges, including threatening or intimidating with injury or damage to property, driving under the influence (DUI) involving liquor or drugs, and DUI with drugs or metabolites. This incident, which appear to be the accused, highlights a consistent pattern of dangerous and reckless behavior across state lines.
On the night of the recent tragic crash, officers observed clear and unmistakable signs of alcohol impairment. Samator exhibited bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, and a strong odor of alcohol. Perhaps most disturbingly, human hair was found embedded in the windshield of his vehicle—an eerie and devastating reminder of the victim he struck.
Additional Revelations:
Samator is also charged in a separate criminal complaint for allegedly fleeing University of Minnesota police after the hit-and-run. Officers reportedly observed him driving the wrong way on the night of the crash, but the pursuit was called off due to the dangerous nature of his driving behavior. This additional incident demonstrates Samator’s persistent recklessness and disregard for both law enforcement and public safety.
Charges Escalated
Initially charged with two counts of criminal vehicular operation and leaving the scene of a crash, the charges were later upgraded to two felony counts of criminal vehicular homicide—one involving alcohol and the other for fleeing the scene of a fatal collision. He also faces felony DWI charges and gross misdemeanor counts for driving with a canceled license.
Remembering the Victim
Family and friends are heartbroken by the loss of Rylie, who they describe as a compassionate and promising young woman studying at the University of Minnesota. Known for her radiant smile and her kind-hearted nature, Rylie touched the lives of everyone she met. She was a talented student and a cherished member of her community. Rylie is survived by her loving parents, siblings, and a large circle of extended family and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.
A GiveSendGo account established in her memory speaks of her as a vibrant soul, full of life and dreams, whose future was tragically stolen in “a senseless accident caused by a drunk driver.” Her untimely passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew her, with many remembering her as a bright light taken far too soon.
Legal Proceedings
Samator remains in custody in Hennepin County Jail on $300,000 bail. He was granted a public defender during his initial hearing and is scheduled to appear in court on December 10. If convicted, he faces up to 15 years in prison—a sentence that many argue is insufficient given the harm caused.
A Call for Reform
This tragedy has reignited calls for stricter penalties for repeat DUI offenders and more robust measures to prevent individuals with canceled licenses from driving. As the legal process unfolds, the community mourns the loss of a promising young life and demands accountability for an incident that could—and should—have been prevented.
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