Hennepin County (trfnews.i234.me) — A tragic incident unfolded on April 7, 2024, when 21-year-old Zakaria Mohamed Yussuf, of Saint Cloud, allegedly drove under the influence, resulting in a devastating crash that left one passenger paralyzed and another injured.
According to investigators, Yussuf was operating a Lincoln sedan around 11:30 p.m. on the 1900 block of 5th Street Southeast in Minneapolis when he veered off the road, struck a street sign, and collided with a light pole. Officers arriving at the scene found Yussuf outside the vehicle, drifting in and out of consciousness with visible head and leg injuries. A subsequent blood test revealed a blood alcohol concentration of .145, nearly twice the legal limit of 0.08 in Minnesota. Additionally, a bottle of alcohol and a bag of suspected marijuana were discovered in the vehicle.
The crash had severe consequences for the passengers. One individual was found partially outside the front seat, initially unable to feel his legs, and was later diagnosed with spinal cord damage, hip fractures, and broken ribs. He informed investigators that he may never walk again. The second passenger sustained a broken rib and a concussion.
Witnesses reported that Yussuf had driven from Saint Cloud that evening and was speeding when he lost control of the vehicle. One passenger indicated that Yussuf had been drinking and appeared intoxicated prior to the crash.
As a result, Yussuf is charged with one count of criminal vehicular operation causing great bodily harm and criminal vehicular operation causing substantial bodily harm, both felonies, along with a misdemeanor DWI charge. A warrant has been issued for his arrest, and a booking photo is not yet available.
Did you know?
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In Minnesota, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08.
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Driving under the influence significantly increases the risk of accidents and severe injuries.
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Criminal vehicular operation charges can lead to severe legal consequences, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.