A Minnesota woman is facing criminal charges after authorities say she caused a head-on crash that killed an 82-year-old woman and later blamed the accident on her dog.
Fatal Crash Under Investigation
According to investigators, 43-year-old Shauna Rae Dokken was driving on Highway 11 in Roseau County on May 29 when her vehicle crossed into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with another car.
The crash killed 82-year-old Barbara Lee Welberg, who died at the scene after her vehicle overturned.
Driver Blamed Dog
Authorities said Dokken told investigators that her dog tried to grab a treat and pulled on the steering wheel, causing her to lose control of the vehicle.
She claimed the vehicle struck the shoulder of the highway, spun out and crossed into the path of Welberg’s car.
Impairment Allegations
According to the criminal complaint, officers observed signs that Dokken may have been impaired, including slurred speech.
While she reportedly tested negative for alcohol, investigators said she admitted taking prescription medications earlier that day.
Authorities are awaiting the results of a blood test conducted by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Charges Filed
Dokken has been charged with criminal vehicular homicide and driving while impaired.
Officials said she was already on probation in an unrelated case at the time of the crash.
She remains in custody at the Roseau County Jail on a $200,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on June 10.
