Ronald Olson, a 44-year-old resident of Grand Island, has been convicted and found guilty of multiple charges, including murder, by a jury. The charges stem from an incident that occurred in Buffalo last year where Olson killed an 18-year-old and injured four other individuals.
The tragic incident took place on March 20, 2023 at approximately 5am. According to officials, Olson approached a parked Jeep at a gas station located on Main Street near Winspear Avenue. He allegedly attempted to sell clothing to the occupants of the vehicle. However, the Jeep departed from the parking lot and continued driving south on Main Street prompting Olson to give chase in his Chevy Silverado.
Prosecutors revealed that Olson believed the individuals inside the Jeep had taken off with the clothing he was trying to sell. Acting under circumstances that demonstrated a depraved indifference to human life, Olson recklessly engaged in conduct that posed a grave risk of death to another person. He intentionally struck the driver's side of the Jeep with his truck causing the vehicle to veer off the roadway.
The Jeep collided with a light pole and then crashed into a tree near the intersection of Benwood Avenue. Tragically, the 18-year-old driver lost their life as a result of the collision while four other occupants sustained injuries.
The jury's verdict holds Olson accountable for his actions, convicting him on 10 counts including murder. The Erie County District Attorney's Office expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the gravity of Olson's conduct and the devastating consequences it had on the victims and their families.
Olson now awaits sentencing where he will face significant state prison time. The community mourns the loss of the young victim and stands in solidarity with the injured individuals and their loved ones.