Miami Heat dancer Nancy G. Lopez Ruiz killed in motorcycle crash

A 22-year-old newly hired Miami Heat dancer was killed Friday when her motorcycle was hit from behind by a vehicle at a red light as she traveled home from practice.

Nancy G. Lopez Ruiz, who lived in Plantation, was riding her 2003 Suzuki GSX R in Fort Lauderdale when the crash occurred at about 9:30 pm. Police say Mario Careaga, of Fort Lauderdale, was driving his 2009 Mercedes when it hit a median before striking Lopez Ruiz. She was knocked from her bike and pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Police are investigating whether alcohol was a factor in the accident.

Lopez Ruiz’s mother spoke to press about having to plan her daughter’s funeral:

She picked what she felt Nancy would like: white organza, long and flowing, with a jacket. It cost $150 at BCBG Max Azria.

“At the register, the lady said, ‘All sales are final,’ ” said Nancy’s older sister, Marjorie Lacy, who helped her mother pick out the dress. “I got teary when she said it. This is the last garment Nancy will ever wear.”

Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade tweeted his condolences to the dancer’s family on Sunday:

“RIP 2 Heat dancer Nancy Lopez-Ruiz. 22 yrs old.. Everyone pray for her family as they go through this hard time..”