1. Warrant says driver smelled of alcohol after hitting stalled vehicle in Lake Elmo, killing girl
2. Warrant says driver smelled of alcohol after hitting stalled vehicle in Lake Elmo, causing fatality.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

Tragedy Strikes in Lake Elmo: 5-Year-Old Girl Killed in Fatal Car Crash

LAKE ELMO, Minn. – A devastating car accident in Lake Elmo on Saturday has claimed the life of a 5-year-old girl. Investigative documents have revealed that the driver who crashed into a stalled car may have been under the influence of alcohol, leaving the community in shock and mourning.

The Incident

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, the tragic incident unfolded when a car became stranded in the left lane of eastbound Highway 36 at Lake Elmo Avenue. At that moment, a 47-year-old man from St. Paul collided with the stalled vehicle from behind at “highway speeds.”

Tragically, inside the stalled vehicle were two children, a 5-year-old girl named Morgan Rae Petersen and her 10-year-old brother, along with their father, a 43-year-old man from St. Paul who had been driving the car. As a result of the collision, Morgan Rae Petersen sustained life-threatening injuries and tragically succumbed to them, while her father and brother suffered less severe injuries.

Investigation and Possible Alcohol Influence

In the aftermath of the crash, the Minnesota State Patrol filed a search warrant to obtain a blood sample from the driver. Investigative reports indicate that the driver emitted a strong smell of alcohol. Furthermore, the driver confessed to law enforcement that he had consumed two beers “earlier.”

Unfortunately, due to the urgency of the situation, field sobriety tests were unable to be conducted at the scene as the ambulance needed to depart promptly. The driver, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries, was transported to Regions Hospital for medical treatment.

Heartbreaking Loss and Grieving Family

Morgan’s father, Chris Petersen, spoke with WCCO about his beloved daughter and the profound impact her loss has had on their family. He shared heartfelt memories of Morgan, highlighting her love for dressing up, singing, and dancing.

“Five years old and she had a whole life to live ahead of her. If I could trade places with her, I would do it in a second. I’m in my 40s, I’ve lived enough of my life. She didn’t get to experience it. I’m never going to see her graduate. Or have kids or be a grandfather to her kids. It’s really hard,” Petersen expressed with deep sorrow.

Ongoing Investigation

As of now, no criminal charges have been filed in relation to the fatal crash. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working diligently to gather all necessary evidence and information before determining the appropriate legal actions.

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1. Warrant driver smelled of alcohol after hitting stalled vehicle in Lake Elmo, killing 5-year-old girl
2. Warrant driver alcohol smell hitting stalled vehicle Lake Elmo, killing 5-year-old girl.