Miami Heat Dancer Killed in Motorcycle Crash

The Miami Heat's dance squad is the best in the NBA, and for many dancers getting to take to the hardwood at American Airline Arena is a dream come true. Sadly, Nancy G. Lopez-Ruiz will never get to make that debut. The 22-year-old had recently signed to the squad, but...

By Kyle Munzenrieder

September 13, 2010

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The Miami Heat's dance squad is the best in the NBA, and for many dancers getting to take to the hardwood at American Airline Arena is a dream come true. Sadly, Nancy G. Lopez-Ruiz will never get to make that debut. The 22-year-old had recently signed to the squad, but was killed in a tragic motorcycle collision this weekend.

Lopez-Ruiz was driving her 2003 Suzuki GSX R Friday night in Fort Lauderdale along East Sunrise Blvd when another car lost control, hit the median, and then her motorcycle. Lopez-Ruiz was thrown from the bike and pronounced dead on the scene.

Mario Careaga was driving the Mercedes that killed Lopez-Ruiz. Police say they've opened a drunk driving investigation, but say that may not be complete for months.

Lopez-Ruiz, who attended High School in Bradenton, Fl and was living in Plantation, Fl had recently signed on to the Miami Heat's premier dance squad and was preparing to make her debut at the Heat's first pre-season games starting in October.

"Her fierce passion for dancing was contagious," Heat president of business operations, said in a statement. "We wish to extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends and teammates."

[AP: Miami Heat Dancer Killed in Crash]
[Herald: Miami Heat dancer killed in motorcycle-Mercedes crash]

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