Wright County, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A man is now facing serious charges after a fatal crash that killed an elderly pedestrian in Howard Lake last year. Jonathan William Edwards, 46, has been charged with criminal vehicular homicide following the September 4, 2024 collision that took the life of 85-year-old Barbara Jean Hoppe.
Authorities responded to the intersection of U.S. Highway 12 and 11th Avenue, where they found Hoppe unresponsive with severe trauma. She was transported to Hennepin County Medical Center, where she later died from blunt-force injuries.
Edwards initially told police that Hoppe was outside of a crosswalk and that he assumed she would stop. But witness statements and gas station surveillance video told a different story. Footage showed Hoppe clearly using the crosswalk, while Edwards’ van approached without slowing down until braking abruptly at the last second, launching her into the air.
Two witnesses driving directly behind Edwards confirmed that he appeared not to notice the pedestrian, despite clear weather and good road conditions. Investigators noted skid marks, front-end damage, and blood at the scene.
Although Edwards showed no signs of impairment, his cell phone activity raised further concerns. Data revealed he placed an outgoing call at the time of the crash, and while he claimed to use a hands-free device, police found no active Bluetooth connection in his vehicle.
Edwards has been formally charged with criminal vehicular homicide for gross negligence. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. He has been summoned to appear in court as the case proceeds.
Did you know?
In Minnesota, even non-impaired drivers can face felony charges for fatal crashes if prosecutors prove gross negligence—including distractions like cell phone use without hands-free compliance.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News