(KNSI) – Wright County prosecutors say a distracted driver struck and killed an 85-year-old woman in Howard Lake.
The crash happened on September 4th, 2024, on Highway 12. According to court records, Jonathan William Edwards claimed he was on the phone using a connected Bluetooth device and said the victim, Barbara Hoppe, was crossing in the middle of the road. The 46-year-old man says he thought she had stopped. Edwards said Hoppe continued to walk, resulting in the crash.
Investigators say video surveillance showed the woman was in the crosswalk, and no Bluetooth devices were found connected to the van.
The Howard Lake man has been charged by summons with criminal vehicular homicide. Edward’s first court appearance has been scheduled for May 9th.
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