Maplewood, MN – A Minnesota woman has been arrested after a tragic crash killed her youngest child when her SUV overturned into a water-filled ditch. 28-year-old Rachale Francine Peloquin faces criminal vehicular homicide – negligence – under the influence of alcohol, according to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office.
Deadly Crash on Highway
The incident occurred on Saturday evening along Highway 36, near the exit for Highway 61, in Maplewood, a city in the Twin Cities metro area.
According to a criminal complaint, Peloquin lost control while taking the exit ramp at high speed. The Chevrolet Tahoe flipped and landed in a nearby swamp, trapping her 1-year-old son, Revon Melvin Anthony Todd, beneath the vehicle.
Emergency personnel from the Maplewood Fire Department worked frantically to extricate the baby using hydraulic tools, but tragically, the child was pronounced dead at the scene. Peloquin, injured with cuts on her arms and legs, reportedly shouted “save my baby” as responders worked.
Suspect’s Statements
Peloquin told law enforcement she was taking her children to visit their grandmother so she could get a break. In interviews with troopers, she admitted to losing control of the SUV, citing wet conditions and bald tires.
However, authorities noted that the road was dry at the time of the crash. Troopers also detected an overwhelming odor of alcohol on her breath.
The complaint states that Peloquin admitted to drinking Fireball Cinnamon Whisky and smoking marijuana on the day of the crash. A breathalyzer test revealed a 0.172 blood-alcohol content (BAC) — more than double the legal limit in Minnesota of 0.08 BAC.
Conflicting Story
During her ride to the Ramsey County Jail, Peloquin allegedly changed her story, claiming she was not driving and that a 32-year-old passenger had been behind the wheel. She stated she initially took responsibility because she owned the vehicle.
Authorities confirmed to KTSP that the other passengers, including Peloquin’s 5-year-old and 6-year-old children, suffered only minor injuries.
Charges and Bail
Peloquin is currently being held on $250,000 bail. She faces:
- Criminal vehicular homicide – negligence – under the influence of alcohol
- Additional charges related to alcohol-impaired driving and negligence may follow
Law Enforcement Statement
Authorities emphasized the dangers of drunk driving and reckless behavior, noting that the combination of alcohol, speed, and vehicle control issues contributed directly to the fatal outcome.
Community Safety Reminder
Officials urge drivers to avoid operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Simple measures like planning rides with a sober driver and ensuring tires and vehicles are road-ready can prevent tragedies like this.
Share your thoughts: How can communities help prevent alcohol-related accidents and protect children on the road? Comment below to join the discussion.
