Police conclude investigation into fatal Apache Mall crash, send file to County Attorney
(ABC 6 News) – Rochester police have concluded their investigation into a fatal crash involving a Minnesota State Patrol trooper and submitted the file to the Olmsted County Attorney’s Office for review and possible charging.
On May 18th, 18-year-old Oliva Flores died when trooper Shane Roper’s squad car collided with the Ford Focus she and friends were in, on their way into the Apache Mall parking lot. The Focus was pushed into a third vehicle.
A GoFundMe is raising money for Angelina and Katarina Bartz, the other two young women injured in the crash.
According to communications officer Amanda Grayson, RPD will work with the attorney’s office if further information is needed.
“We want to thank the Flores family and everyone impacted by this tragedy for their patience throughout the extensive investigative process,” Rochester police chief Jim Franklin said in an email. “We offer our ongoing condolences during this difficult time.”
Olivia Flores’ family retained a Rochester-area lawyer to begin their own investigation into the crash.
Their attorney, Daniel McIntosh of Restovich, Braun and Associates, said he hopes to see a fair investigation and review.
“Our goal right now is really that both the law enforcement investigation has just been very fair and very thorough, and that the county attorneys office reviews whoever’s responsibility in a fair way, and that it wouldn’t matter really that there’s a state trooper involved,” McIntosh said.
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“The investigation was provided to our office today by RPD,” Olmsted County attorney Mark Ostrem said. “It is a complex investigation and we do not have a timeline for when a decision will be made. Because of the nature of the incident, I would expect this office will make a formal announcement when our review is complete.”
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(ABC 6 News) – Minnesota State Trooper Shane Roper has been placed on paid administrative leave, while the Rochester Police Department continues their investigation of a Rochester crash that killed an Owatonna teenager.
RELATED: UPDATE: Names released in fatal crash near Apache Mall in Rochester – ABC 6 News – kaaltv.com
On May 18th, 18-year-old Oliva Flores died when Roper’s squad car collided with the Ford Focus she and friends were in, on their way into the Apache Mall parking lot.
The Focus was pushed into a third vehicle.
Sgt. Troy Christianson with the Minnesota State Patrol said it is common for troopers to be placed on paid administrative leave after a “critical incident.”
Rochester police released the names of those involved nearly three weeks ago — but declined to release any new information, or discuss whether or not alcohol/other substances are being considered as possible factors in the crash.
“There are many parts to an investigation like this, so it’s taking some time,” communications officer Amanda Grayson said in an email.