Fatal Pedestrian Accident in St. Cloud Leads to Felony Charge

Feb 19, 2025 at 2:56 PM

A tragic incident occurred on a Sunday evening near the junction of Highway 15 and Highway 23 in St. Cloud, resulting in a fatal collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian. The driver, identified as a 21-year-old woman from Sartell, has been charged with a felony for failing to stop at the scene of the accident. According to court documents, the driver admitted to being aware of hitting someone but left the area due to concerns about her child's safety. This case highlights the importance of adhering to traffic laws and the consequences of fleeing an accident scene.

The event unfolded when the driver was traveling south on Highway 15, having just passed through the intersection with Highway 23. Witnesses reported that a man was crossing the southbound lanes outside of the designated crosswalk and was struck by the vehicle. Tragically, the pedestrian succumbed to his injuries. The driver initially fled the scene but later contacted law enforcement to report her involvement. Upon questioning, she confessed to knowing she had hit someone but chose to leave because she did not want to exit her car with her child inside.

Law enforcement officers responded to the call and interviewed the driver at her residence. The criminal complaint filed in Stearns County District Court details the sequence of events leading up to the charge. The driver is now facing one count of failing to stop for a traffic collision causing injury or death. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.

The aftermath of this tragedy underscores the critical importance of road safety and responsible driving. It also highlights the legal ramifications of failing to stop after an accident, especially when it results in serious injury or death. As the investigation progresses, it serves as a reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic regulations, ensuring the safety of both pedestrians and motorists alike.