ROSEAU, Minn. (WKRC) – A 43-year-old woman swerved into oncoming traffic and caused a fatal accident on May 29 around 4 p.m., authorities said.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, Shauna Dokken was driving when her vehicle collided head-on with an SUV driven by 82-year-old Barbara Lee Welburg, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Dokken sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was later transported to a local hospital.
Witnesses reported that Dokken made conflicting statements about the incident, including claims that her dog grabbed the steering wheel and caused her to lose control. First responders observed that Dokken appeared to be slurring her speech, though she did not test positive for alcohol. Authorities noted she had taken multiple prescription medications earlier that day, including Adderall and lorazepam.
The Minnesota Star-Tribune reported that a witness almost collided with Dokken's vehicle and described the situation as if she was “intentionally tracking [his] movements.” Dokken was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide.
This incident is under investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol. Further details on lane closures and ongoing investigations have not been released.