Prominent DFL Political Activist Charged After Allegedly Hitting a Pedestrian and Driving Away

(KNSI) — The DFL Party Chair for the 8th Congressional District has been charged after allegedly hitting a pedestrian and leaving the scene.

Charges say Cynthia Martin was on Highway 169 near Nashwauk on July 3rd when she ran over 19-year-old Carter Haithcock, stopped briefly, and then drove away. She then called 911 the next day to say she may have been involved in a crash, hitting what she believed was an owl or a turkey. Court papers say someone who was on the phone with Martin heard her say, “I hit something,” and they told her to call 911. She said she would when she got home. She is accused of waiting until the next day to do so.

Investigators said they found blood on the side mirror of her SUV and a portion of the passenger side windshield wiper. A piece of fabric was lodged in the hood and was consistent with the hooded sweatshirt Haithcock was wearing.

Someone had earlier called 911 to say they saw someone in dark clothing walking along the highway, and it was difficult to see them. Investigators believe that may have been Haithcock.

Martin was charged via summons in Itasca County Court with criminal vehicular homicide and leaving the scene of a crash. She’s due back in court on December 26th.

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