Minneapolis, MN – Derrick Thompson, 29, has been sentenced to more than 58 years in prison for causing a high-speed crash that killed five young women in Minnesota.
The victims, aged between 17 and 20, were killed in the crash on December 14, 2023, after Thompson sped at over 110 mph in a rented Cadillac Escalade.
The Crash and Investigation
Thompson was convicted of five counts of third-degree murder and 10 counts of vehicular homicide. He had rented a Cadillac Escalade and was driving recklessly through Minneapolis, even after law enforcement tried to pull him over.
The crash happened after he ran a red light and collided with a Honda Civic, killing all five women inside. The car was pinned against a bridge, and the women were declared dead at the scene.
Thompson’s Defense and Denial
During his trial, Thompson initially denied being the driver, claiming his brother, Damarco Thompson, was behind the wheel. His defense lawyers argued that his brother was responsible. However, video footage and witness testimony contradicted this claim, confirming that Derrick Thompson was indeed the driver.
He later admitted to being behind the wheel but continued to minimize his actions, calling the crash a “bad luck” incident.
Emotional Impact on Victims’ Families
At the sentencing, family members of the victims spoke out about the emotional toll the deaths had taken on them. Siham Odhowa’s sister, Sundus, addressed the court, saying, “I hope reality suffocates you for the rest of your life.” She added that Thompson should never experience peace or freedom again.
Prosecutors emphasized the preventability of the crash and the carelessness of Thompson’s actions, with Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty saying, “This was as preventable as it was inexcusable.“
Thompson’s Past Criminal Record
Thompson had a criminal history and had been released from a California prison about six months before the crash. In California, he had been serving time for a previous motor vehicle incident, where he crashed into a pedestrian, severely injuring her. Authorities also found drugs and cash in the rental vehicle, including fentanyl and cocaine.
The Trial and Conviction
The trial also revealed key details, including Damarco Thompson’s testimony, which helped solidify the conviction. Jurors found that Derrick Thompson was likely the driver because of the height difference between him and his brother, as well as evidence that the driver’s seat was adjusted for Thompson’s height.
Thompson’s actions are believed to have been influenced by impulsive decisions and a lack of remorse, as he had even said he wished he had died instead of the victims.
Final Sentencing
On Thursday, Judge Carolina Lamas sentenced Thompson to 58 years and 10 months in prison for the deaths of Salma Mohamed Abdikadir, Sahra Liban Gesaade, Sagal Burhaan Hersi, Siham Adan Odhowa, and Sabiriin Mohamoud Ali.
Thompson will be held accountable for his reckless actions, and this sentence aims to prevent him from causing further harm.
