Mother Killed in Crash With Police Cruiser, Department Withholds Details
A businesswoman died after her vehicle was struck by an Independence, Missouri, police officer responding to an emergency call; the department is not releasing information about the officer's status or the crash specifics.
Misty Leslie, 48, a successful businesswoman and mother, died on October 11 following a collision with a police SUV in Independence, Missouri. The crash occurred around 1:15 a.m. when Officer Arnold Matthew's cruiser struck Leslie's Audi SQ5 on the passenger side as she was driving through an intersection.
Independence police allege that Leslie ran a red light, while stating Officer Matthew had his lights and sirens activated as he was responding to an emergency call. The department has not disclosed the speed of either vehicle. Leslie was transported to a hospital where she later died from her injuries. Officer Matthew sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
The Independence Police Department has faced scrutiny in recent years for its history of officer-involved traffic crashes. Earlier this year, the department revised its policy on high-speed police pursuits, prohibiting officers from initiating them for minor traffic offenses or city ordinance violations, in an effort to reduce such incidents.
The department has been reluctant to share details regarding the current crash investigation. A spokesperson told the Kansas City Star that the officer's employment status is not considered an open record. The Leslie family has declined to comment.
Leslie, who managed retail stores and owned a photography business, is survived by her 21-year-old daughter, Emarea. Her obituary described her as a devoted mother whose "greatest role was being a mother." Friends and family remembered her for her strength, determination, and love, noting her passion for her daughter's milestones.
Beyond her family and career, Leslie was known for her interests in softball, baking, photography, and supporting the Kansas City Chiefs. Her photography business, Everything But Weddings (EBW) Photography, focused on capturing meaningful moments for clients. She also worked as a District Manager with Signet Jewelers, where she was described as an "overachiever" with a competitive spirit. Leslie's family also noted her strong Christian faith and how she embodied God's love and grace in her interactions with others. They expressed finding comfort in her faith, believing her transition was to a place of everlasting peace.
