Samantha Jo Petersen, allegedly driving under the influence, collided with a carriage, resulting in the deaths of 7-year-old Wilma Miller and 11-year-old Irma Miller.
In a tragic incident in rural Minnesota, identical twins Samantha Jo Petersen and Sarah Beth Petersen face charges related to a fatal collision with an Amish horse-drawn buggy. Fox News reported.
The case is confusing as authorities allege the sisters changed locations to mislead investigators.
On September 25, 2023, Samantha, allegedly driving under the influence, collided with the carriage, resulting in the deaths of 7-year-old Wilma Miller and 11-year-old Irma Miller.
Two other brothers, ages 9 and 13, were injured in the accident. Surprisingly, it was Sarah who initially claimed responsibility at the scene, leading to a complicated investigation.
Samantha, with an expired driver's license and no insurance, now faces 21 charges, including vehicular manslaughter, DWI and leaving the scene of an accident. Meanwhile, Sarah is due in court on April 1 and will face 16 felony charges, including aiding and abetting.
The sisters' alleged reason for the move revolves around Samantha's drug use at the time of the accident. With marijuana joints burned and evidence of methamphetamine use discovered, Samantha feared imprisonment. Sarah, who had recently been in prison, may have felt forced to take the blame for her sister.
Legal experts acknowledge the circumstantial case against Samantha, but point to challenges due to the absence of high-speed impact. However, the negligence threshold under Minnesota law could favor the prosecution. David Gelman, a former prosecutor turned defense attorney, suggests that the sisters' attempt to switch drivers could anger the jury.
As the investigation progresses, potential challenges arise, including contaminated crime scenes and the sisters' alleged interference. The defense can capitalize on these points, emphasizing the need to carefully examine the case.
