A fatal crash in Minnesota has led to felony charges after a driver claimed an unusual distraction caused her to lose control.
Authorities say 43-year-old Shauna Rae Dokken was driving a 2000 Ford F-250 eastbound when her vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a 2013 Kia Sorento.
The crash resulted in the death of 82-year-old Barbara Lee Welberg, of Baudette, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Dokken sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
According to court documents, multiple 911 callers reported seeing Dokken’s vehicle swerving into oncoming traffic prior to the collision.
During the investigation, Dokken told authorities that her dog had distracted her and then grabbed or twisted the steering wheel, causing her to lose control of the vehicle.
Prosecutors have charged Dokken with criminal vehicular homicide, alleging she operated the vehicle in a grossly negligent manner.
The charge carries a potential penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine.
The case remains ongoing.
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