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.
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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. A first court appearance is set for June 12.
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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; Ramsey County Community Corrections operates the Ramsey County Correctional Facility in Maplewood.
