Heartbreaking Loss: 12-Year-Old Amari Clark Killed in Tragic Drunk Driving Crash
The tragic death of 12-year-old Amari Clark has left the St. Louis and Columbia communities in mourning. A car crash on Illinois Route 159 near Stonewolf Trail claimed her life, leaving her family shattered and the public seeking accountability for this devastating event.
The Incident: What Happened That Night?
On Friday night, Andrew M. Fraticelli, a 20-year-old from Collinsville, allegedly caused the crash that resulted in Amari’s death. According to reports, Fraticelli was suspected of being under the influence of heroin while driving a 1996 Jeep Cherokee. He crossed the center line of Illinois Route 159 and collided head-on with a 2002 Ford Taurus driven by Apryl Sherrod, Amari’s mother.
Following the collision, Fraticelli was charged with reckless homicide and aggravated driving under the influence. These charges highlight the serious consequences of his actions. Authorities are holding Fraticelli in the St. Clair County Jail with bail set at $250,000.
The Impact on the Family
The crash left Apryl Sherrod with significant injuries, including bruises, a sprained ankle, and more than 100 stitches to her tongue and forehead. She was unconscious at the scene and is currently recovering from her injuries. Tragically, Amari was rushed to Cardinal Glennon Children’s Medical Center in St. Louis, where she later passed away due to her injuries.
St. Clair County State’s Attorney Brendan Kelly expressed his sorrow, saying, “It breaks your heart. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.” The entire community continues to grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
Drunk and reckless driving accidents often leave families devastated. Criminal charges such as reckless homicide and aggravated DUI are essential to holding offenders responsible. However, criminal penalties alone are not always enough. Families can also seek justice and financial relief through civil lawsuits.
In this case, Amari’s family could file a personal injury lawsuit against Andrew Fraticelli. Such a claim could help them recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Funeral and burial costs
- Emotional distress
- Loss of companionship
- Punitive damages to hold the offender accountable
No amount of compensation can undo the harm caused, but these measures can help families find closure and secure financial resources to rebuild their lives.
How Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers Can Help?
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming it is to face the aftermath of a tragedy like this. If you want to do car accident claim, contact us. Serving families in both Missouri and Illinois, we are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring negligent parties are held accountable. Get the compensation you deserve, contact our St. louis car crash lawyers today for a free case investigation and let our team handle your Missouri car accident claim from start to finish.
Here’s how we can support you:
- Compassionate Guidance: We handle your case with care, making the legal process less stressful.
- Aggressive Representation: We work tirelessly to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
- Free Case Investigation: Our firm offers a no-cost evaluation to help you understand your options.
- Fair Compensation: We will seek damages for medical costs, emotional suffering, and other expenses caused by the accident.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a car crash, reach out to us for dedicated support. We are best car crash lawyers in St. Louis and Columbia.
Funeral Arrangements for Amari Clark
The wake and funeral for Amari Clark will be held at New Life Christ Church at 689 Scott Troy Road in O’Fallon, IL.
- Wake: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
- Funeral Service: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, our St. Louis wrongful death lawyer can help you seek justice and financial relief.
Award-Winning Personal Injury Lawyer Recognized for Excellence in Missouri
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, our results speak through the voices of our clients and now, through the honors we’ve earned in the community. Tyson Mutrux was proudly awarded Best Attorney in Columbia for 2025 by Inside Columbia Magazine, a recognition that reflects not only legal skill but also the deep trust of those we serve in Missouri.
A lawyer’s reputation speaks volumes about their ability to handle cases effectively. Whether you need legal representation for a personal injury claim, car crash claim, slip and fall or any other legal matter, choosing an attorney with a proven track record is essential.
Reading online reviews, client testimonials, and industry recognitions can help you gauge a lawyer’s credibility. Tyson Mutrux has built a strong reputation in Missouri, earning a 10.0 Superb rating on Avvo and recognition from Expertise as one of the Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in St. Louis (2020).
Additionally, he has been honored by The National Trial Lawyers’ “Top 40 Under 40” for his dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients. His attention to detail, strong communication skills, and history of satisfied clients are reflected in numerous positive Google reviews.
You can also connect with us directly on Google to see reviews, updates, and more:
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We serve clients across Missouri and Illinois, with dedicated offices in St. Louis and Columbia.
Take Action: Contact Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers Today
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is life-changing. At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we are here to help families like yours seek justice.
Call us today at 888-550-4026 or visit www.tysonmutrux.com to schedule your free consultation. Let us fight for you, so you can focus on healing.