Brent Keranen: Minnesota driver was 'playing air guitar' before fatally crashing into pedestrian
Warning: This article contains a recollection of crime and can be triggering to some, readers’ discretion advised.
CARLTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA: Brent Keranen, a 21-year-old Minnesota driver, faces serious charges after allegedly being involved in a fatal pedestrian collision while engaging in what he described as an "air guitar" session.
The incident, which occurred on March 21 in Carlton County, resulted in the tragic death of 61-year-old Justin McNeil.
Insights into Brent Keranen's fatal collision
Keranen has been charged with criminal vehicular manslaughter in connection with the crash.
Authorities stated that he was driving along Highway 73 when he purportedly veered out of his lane, fatally striking McNeil, who was walking on the shoulder of the road.
During police questioning, Keranen claimed that he was "jamming out" to a song on the radio and playing "air guitar" when the airbags deployed, stating that he was unaware he had struck someone.
“The defendant explained to law enforcement that he was listening to the radio when a good song began playing, prompting the defendant to play ‘air guitar’ to the song, when suddenly, his vehicle’s air bags deployed,” the police affidavit stated.
“The defendant also made later statements he was ‘looking down and jamming out a bit and next thing you know I hit somebody.'”
Further details from the complaint indicate that the suspect disclosed driving with his cruise control set to 52 mph in a 40 mph zone. Despite a field sobriety test revealing a blood alcohol level of 0.06, below the legal limit of 0.08, authorities obtained a blood sample for further testing after obtaining a search warrant.
Brent Keranen's disturbing driving history
In a disturbing revelation, Keranen allegedly admitted to authorities that he had previously struck a state patrol trooper's car.
He confessed to feeling exhausted due to long work hours and staying up "very late" the night before, socializing and drinking with friends. Despite receiving a citation, he was permitted to resume driving.
The legal proceedings surrounding Keranen remain uncertain, with no indication of whether he has entered a plea or secured legal representation. Nonetheless, according to Northern News Now, he is expected to appear in court on April 1 to address the charges against him.
