Missouri Teen Dies After Being Struck by Sheriff's Deputy's Vehicle

A 16-year-old girl died early Saturday morning after being struck by a St. Francois County Sheriff's Office deputy's vehicle in Missouri. The incident occurred at approximately 3:43 a.m. near Park Hills, a city located about 65 miles south of St. Louis.

The deputy had responded to a call reporting an unconscious girl lying on the road. According to the sheriff's office, the deputy observed the caller's parked car with hazard lights on but did not see the teenager on the ground. The deputy then struck the 16-year-old with his vehicle.

The coroner was summoned and pronounced the girl dead at the scene. She was identified by family members and the coroner's office as Persephone Berger. An autopsy conducted on Monday indicated no physical injuries prior to the collision, with the final cause and manner of death pending a finalized report from the coroner's office.

The St. Francois County Sheriff's Office stated that the reason Berger was lying unconscious on the road remains unclear and is under investigation. The Missouri State Highway Patrol has been requested to conduct an independent investigation into the events leading to Berger's death.

The St Francois County Sheriff's Office said its deputy did not see Berger and that it is investigating why she was lying unconscious on the road. She is pictured with her mom

Rumors circulating on social media that Berger was struck during a vehicle pursuit or that the deputy fled the scene have been addressed by the sheriff's office as false.

The local community gathered for a candlelight vigil in honor of Berger on Monday evening. Friends described Berger as a lively, understanding, sweet, kind, and funny individual with a bright future. They noted her intelligence and academic achievements at West County High School, where she was reportedly one of the top students.

West County High School released a statement expressing condolences to Berger's family, friends, and the school community, emphasizing the school's supportive family environment during this difficult time. Counselors and support services will be available for students and staff impacted by the loss.

Friends of Berger are organizing a T-shirt fundraiser to support her family, and an online fundraiser has also been established to help cover funeral costs. The Daily Mail has reached out to the St. Francois County Sheriff's Office and Berger's mother for comment.