Bemidji Driver Charged After Crash, DWI Allegation

Bemidji (trfnews.i234.me) — An 18-year-old Bemidji woman faces two charges following a single-vehicle crash in Beltrami County.

Rylea Jo Staples is charged in Beltrami County District Court.

She faces criminal vehicular operation resulting in bodily harm and misdemeanor DWI.

The charges stem from a September 16, 2026 crash.

Vehicle Found Damaged After Crash

According to the criminal complaint, authorities responded to Tyler Avenue and Mill Street.

They found a white Honda partially in the westbound lane of Mill Street.

The vehicle had front-end damage and deployed airbags.

Its rear windshield was also broken.

Staples allegedly told authorities she had been driving the vehicle.

She complained that her head did not feel well.

She was then taken to the Sanford Emergency Room.

Authorities examined the crash scene and found vehicle tracks near the intersection.

The complaint says the vehicle had driven over a road sign.

Investigators reported finding paint transfer from the sign on the Honda.

The tracks continued through a ditch before returning to Mill Street.

An open bottle of vodka was also allegedly found inside the vehicle.

The Honda also had a passenger identified in court documents as C.R.

Authorities reported numerous cuts and blood on the passenger’s hands.

The passenger also complained of neck pain.

The complaint therefore alleges the crash caused bodily harm.

According to the complaint, Staples had called 911 after the crash.

Authorities were told she identified herself as a drunk driver during that call.

At the hospital, Staples provided a preliminary breath test.

The complaint says the test showed an alcohol concentration of .123.

Investigators later obtained a search warrant for a blood sample.

Staples provided the sample before being taken to the Beltrami County Jail.

Staples faces gross misdemeanor criminal vehicular operation involving bodily harm while allegedly under the influence of alcohol.

That charge carries a maximum sentence of 364 days in jail or a $3,000 fine.

She also faces misdemeanor driving while impaired.

That count carries a maximum of 90 days in jail or a $1,000 fine.

More information about Minnesota criminal vehicular operation laws is available through the Minnesota Revisor of Statutes.

The charges are allegations. Staples is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

I’m Adrian Cole reporting for TRF News.