ROCHESTER – Former Minnesota State Trooper Shane Roper, who is facing multiple charges in connection with a fatal crash in Rochester, is no longer employed by the Minnesota State Patrol. Lt. Michael Lee confirmed on Friday, September 6, that Roper’s last day of employment was on Tuesday, September 3. However, it remains unclear whether Roper was terminated or resigned.
Roper is facing nine criminal charges, including felony counts of second-degree manslaughter, criminal vehicular homicide, and criminal vehicular operation. He pleaded not guilty to all charges on August 29 in Olmsted County District Court. His next court appearance is set for November.
The charges stem from a tragic accident on May 18, 2024, that claimed the life of 18-year-old Olivia Flores of Owatonna. The crash occurred near the Apache Mall in Rochester, a busy area known for heavy weekend traffic. According to the criminal complaint, Roper was traveling at 83 miles per hour when his squad car collided with a Ford Focus attempting to turn at the intersection. Despite attempts to brake, Roper’s car struck the passenger side of the Ford Focus at a speed of at least 55 mph, sending both vehicles into another car, a Toyota Rav4.
Witnesses reported that Roper’s vehicle was speeding, and no emergency lights or sirens were activated at the time of the crash. Several individuals involved in the crash, including passengers in the Ford Focus and the Toyota Rav4, sustained significant injuries. Roper’s ride-along passenger also suffered bruised ribs and multiple fractures.
Weeks after the incident, Roper admitted to law enforcement that he was trying to close the gap between his squad car and a vehicle suspected of a traffic violation. He also acknowledged not paying attention to his speed, stating that he believed his lights were on. Additionally, the complaint revealed that Roper had been recorded driving at 135 mph earlier that same day while responding to a medical call, which he later admitted may not have been necessary.
This case has sparked significant public interest, as Roper, a trained law enforcement officer, is now facing serious felony charges for his role in the fatal crash.