Repeat DUI Offender, Drunk and Unlicensed, Kills University of Minnesota Student in Hit and Run
A repeat DUI offender is charged with killing an 18-year-old University of Minnesota student in a hit-and-run near campus. 🌐 #News #MinneapolisMN #Minnesota #Crime
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – An unlicensed Minneapolis driver with a history of alcohol-related offenses is facing serious charges after fatally striking an 18-year-old University of Minnesota student in a hit-and-run near campus. The victim, Rylie Saloum, died three days later from injuries sustained in the crash.
The Incident and Victim Details
On November 7, Ali Abas Samator, 30, was driving south on Cedar Avenue near Riverside Avenue when he sped through a red light and hit Saloum, who was walking in a crosswalk with the right of way, according to court documents. Surveillance footage confirmed that Samator made no attempt to brake before the collision, which threw Saloum’s body 111 feet.
Emergency personnel arrived at the scene to find Saloum severely injured and transported her to Hennepin County Medical Center. Tragically, Saloum, a freshman at the University of Minnesota and recent graduate of St. Michael-Albertville High School, succumbed to her injuries on November 10.
An online fundraiser has been set up to support Saloum’s family. “This gift of life she gave us, albeit far too short for the amazing things she had planned, was filled with joy and kindness,” the page reads. “She continues this legacy by sharing several of her organs with others so they can live.”
Driver’s History and Arrest
Court filings reveal that Samator, who has two prior drunken driving convictions, was operating a vehicle with a canceled license at the time of the crash. His license was revoked in June 2018 following a DUI violation, and it remained canceled after he withdrew from Minnesota’s ignition interlock program on June 23, 2023.
After hitting Saloum, Samator fled the scene, driving onto northbound Interstate 35W to evade police. Shortly after, he returned to the crash site and drove through police tape.
Officers arrested him nearby, noting signs of intoxication. A blood test later revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.17%, more than twice Minnesota’s legal driving limit of 0.08%. Investigators also observed what appeared to be human hair on the windshield of his vehicle.
Samator’s criminal record includes convictions for robbery, theft, drug possession, underage drinking, and driving after his license was revoked.
Legal Proceedings and Community Impact
Samator is charged with criminal vehicular homicide, drunken driving, and driving with a canceled license. Initially charged with criminal vehicular operation, the charges were upgraded after Saloum’s death. He remains in custody on $75,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in Hennepin County District Court on December 10. Messages left with his attorney for comment have not yet been returned.
Authorities and advocates continue to highlight the dangers posed by repeat DUI offenders and the need for stronger measures to prevent such tragedies.
A Legacy of Kindness and Faith
The loss of Rylie Saloum has left a profound void in the lives of her loved ones and the University of Minnesota community. Her kindness and selflessness continue to shine through the lives she has saved by donating her organs.
In the words of her family, “This gift of life she gave us, albeit far too short for the amazing things she had planned, was filled with joy and kindness.”
As they grieve, our prayer is that they find comfort in their faith and the support of their community. Matthew 5:4 reminds us: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Those wishing to support Saloum’s family can contribute to the fundraiser set up in her honor here.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Minnesota
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