A collision between a motorcycle and a Jeep on Wednesday in White Bear Lake resulted in the death of the motorcycle driver, prompting an investigation by the Minnesota State Patrol.
Robert Marines Rodriguez, 63, of White Bear Lake, faces a charge of criminal vehicular homicide for allegedly operating his vehicle with negligence while under the influence of alcohol.
According to the complaint, Rodriguez was turning left from Highway 61 to Highway 96 when he failed to see the motorcycle, which had a green light. Witnesses reported that the motorcyclist was traveling north on Highway 61 when Rodriguez turned in front of it, causing a severe crash. Officers noted that Rodriguez exhibited signs of intoxication, including slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and poor balance.
READ MORE → Ramsey County coverage
Rodriguez registered a .27 blood alcohol concentration on a preliminary breath test and admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the incident, according to court documents.
Rodriguez has a prior conviction for DWI in 2021 and is currently in custody at the Ramsey County Jail. A first court appearance is set for June 12.
About This Charge
In Minnesota, homicide charges fall under three degrees: § 609.185 (first-degree murder), § 609.19 (second-degree murder) and § 609.195 (third-degree murder). First-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence; second-degree convictions are presumptive 12 to 40 years; third-degree up to 25 years. The Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Commission publishes guideline ranges that judges follow except where specific aggravating or mitigating factors are on the record.
Related MN CRIME Coverage
Gunfight in Saint Paul Leaves 1 Wounded, Suspect Charged • Saint Paul Officers Cleared in Fatal 2024 Shooting Of Homicide Suspect • Attempted Murder Charges Filed in Roseville Gas Station Attack
Jurisdictional Context
Ramsey County encompasses Saint Paul and is served by the Ramsey County Attorney’s Office. Felony cases are heard in the Second Judicial District at the Ramsey County Courthouse in downtown Saint Paul; the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office operates the Ramsey County Correctional Facility in Maplewood.
