A suspect has been taken into custody in connection with a fatal pedestrian crash that claimed the life of a 30-year-old woman in Saint Paul. The Saint Paul Police Department announced via a social media post that officers have arrested 39-year-old Michael Kentrell Smith on suspicion of criminal vehicular homicide. The incident took place at the intersection of Saint Anthony Avenue and Aldine Street on Thursday.
Smith was apprehended by police just after 3:15 p.m. on I-94 and Hwy. 52, in an SUV that matched the description of the vehicle reportedly involved in the crash. The authorities have moved quickly to thoroughly investigate to bring closure to the incident. Amber O. Deneen, also of Saint Paul, has been identified as the victim of the tragic event by the Ramsey County Medical Examiner.
In a statement shared by the Saint Paul Police Department, the community’s role in the case was acknowledged. "We want to thank everyone who reached out with information about this case," the department expressed. This level of community involvement often proves to be crucial in resolving such dire situations.
The arrest of Smith does not constitute a conviction, and he remains innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Details surrounding the circumstances of the crash have yet to be fully disclosed as the investigation continues. Those with additional information are encouraged to come forward and possibly help to further piece together what transpired on that fateful day.
The loss of Amber O. Deneen has resonated within the Saint Paul community, reminding residents of the inherent vulnerability that pedestrians face on the road. The Saint Paul Police Department's update on this case can be found on their official Facebook page.
