In Memory of Anna Pryor

Eighteen year-old Anna Pryor’s life was cut short on September 23, 2006 as a result of a tragic car accident.

Anna was with an abusive, eighteen year-old boyfriend with whom she was trying to end the relationship. Her boyfriend began driving her car more than 100 miles per hour while attempting to exit westbound on Interstate 70 at Quebec Street. He lost control of the vehicle and both Anna and her boyfriend were killed almost immediately in the crash.

Anna, who was known as “Annie” towards friends and family, is remembered as a curious, bright young woman always full of energy.

Since 2006, 3,490 drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 died in car crashes nationwide. Sixty-two 16-20 year-olds died on Colorado roadways the same year. Around 80% of teens died while riding with teen drivers in 2006. To learn more and inform others about teen driver safety, please visit AAA Colorado’s website.

Anna was involved in an abusive relationship and was trying to leave it before the devastating night in September. Recent studies show that 1 in 3 teenage girls are likely to be involved in an abusive relationship before graduating from high school. Nearly 80% of girls who have been physically abused in their intimate relationships continue to date their abuser. Abuse can be construed as verbal, physical and sexual.

If you know of a friend or family member involved in an abusive relationship, please contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE or Teen Helpline at 1.800.400.0900.

Further information on how you can help yourself if you are a victim of abuse and warning signs of an abusive relationship can be found at the following websites:
T.E.A.R. (Teens Experiencing Abusive Relationships)
TeensHealth