Drunk Coon Rapids Driver Hit 90 MPH Before Fatal Fridley Crash: Police

FRIDLEY, MN — A 26-year-old Coon Rapids man is accused of driving drunk at speeds of up to 90 mph before causing a fatal crash in Fridley on Monday.

Juan Carlos Rodriguez Torres is charged with criminal vehicular homicide, DWI, and grossly negligent driving. Torres has a history of multiple speeding convictions, according to authorities.

The crash occurred on Jan. 21, just before 11 a.m., near 6661 East River Road. The collision involved a 2007 Dodge Charger and a 2005 Honda Pilot SUV, driven by Torres.

Responding officers found Torres walking barefoot near the wreckage of the Honda Pilot, with a two-inch bleeding cut on his forehead, according to the criminal complaint. Police noted he smelled strongly of alcohol.

The driver of the Dodge Charger was pronounced dead at the scene, despite lifesaving efforts by first responders.

Police interviewed a witness identified as "JM," who was at Gerber Collision and Glass on East River Road in Fridley, picking up a vehicle for work.

JM reported hearing the tires of the Honda Pilot screeching and its brakes locking as it sped southbound on East River Road at an estimated 80 to 90 mph.

As the Honda Pilot approached a curve near Rice Creek Way, it lost control and struck the rear bumper of a blue Dodge Charger. It then hit a curb, flipped multiple times, and crashed into trees.

The Dodge also left the road, colliding with trees and other property.

At the Anoka County Jail, a search of Torres’ belongings revealed two plastic baggies containing what appeared to be marijuana, one with buds and another with a crushed leafy substance, police said.