SMU Graduate Struck and Killed While Walking to Rideshare in Dallas

Dallas police are investigating the tragic death of 23-year-old Katie Kerl, an SMU graduate from Florida, who was struck by a vehicle while walking to a rideshare vehicle Thursday night.

The incident occurred just before 10 p.m. near the Rosewood Mansion Hotel, located at Gillespie Street and Turtle Creek Boulevard. Investigators say Kerl and her friend were walking to their parked rideshare when another vehicle drove around the rideshare and struck the two women. Kerl’s friend was injured in the collision, while Kerl was pinned under the vehicle in the valet area.

Katie Kerl had moved to Dallas after graduating from SMU in 2023 and had fallen in love with the city. Her family, who lives in Florida, was notified of the incident, which has left them devastated. Dallas police have not filed charges yet, and the investigation is ongoing. The driver, whose identity has not been released, remained at the scene. Police have not said if they will face any charges, citing an ongoing investigation.