SPRING VALLEY, Minn. – Samantha Peterson, 37, was sentenced to four years in prison for her role in a fatal crash involving an Amish buggy on Sept. 25, 2023.
The crash occurred near Spring Valley when Peterson, driving under the influence of methamphetamine, collided with a buggy carrying four people, resulting in the deaths of two children, ages 7 and 11.
Following the incident, Peterson allegedly convinced her twin sister, Sarah, to claim responsibility. Authorities quickly identified inconsistencies in their accounts and determined that Samantha was the driver.
During her sentencing on Oct. 16, Peterson expressed remorse for her actions, acknowledging her addiction and its devastating impact. “My addiction took a lot from me, but it took the world from you [the victims' family], and for that, I will never be able to forgive myself,” she stated.
Peterson also apologized for attempting to mislead law enforcement, saying she made “terrible decisions” due to fear and shame. Investigators discovered a text message on her phone in which she admitted her role in the crash and outlined her plan for Sarah to take the blame.
Sarah Peterson was sentenced in March to three months in jail and four years of probation for her involvement in the deception.
The investigation into the incident remains a focus for authorities as they continue to uphold accountability in this tragic case.