Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN (trfnews.i234.me)—On January 20, 2025, at approximately 10:56 a.m., a two-vehicle collision occurred in the 6600 block of East River Road NE, Fridley, Minnesota. The vehicles involved were a 2007 Dodge Charger and a 2005 Honda Pilot SUV, both traveling southbound. The Honda Pilot, operated by 26-year-old Juan Carlos Rodriguez-Torres, collided with the Dodge Charger, causing both vehicles to exit the roadway. The driver of the Charger, identified as 50-year-old Romell Sandoval Roca from Maryland, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Witness Accounts and Evidence
Witnesses reported observing the Honda Pilot traveling at an estimated speed of 80 to 90 miles per hour prior to the collision. The impact resulted in both vehicles leaving the roadway, with the Honda Pilot overturning multiple times before coming to rest against trees. Rodriguez-Torres was found near his vehicle with a head injury and exhibited signs of impairment, including the smell of alcohol. A search warrant was obtained for a blood sample; results are pending.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
On January 21, 2025, Rodriguez-Torres was charged with two counts of criminal vehicular homicide and one count of fourth-degree driving while impaired. The charges allege gross negligence and impairment as contributing factors. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison for each vehicular homicide charge. Bail was set at $500,000.
Ongoing Investigation
The Fridley Police Department, Spring Lake Park Police Department, Fridley Fire Department, Allina EMS, and Minnesota State Patrol responded to the incident. The roadway was closed for several hours for evidence collection, including vehicle debris and damage assessment. Authorities continue to investigate and request that anyone with additional information contact the Fridley Police Department.
I’m Chris Harper, reporting for trfnews.i234.me